Screening for Mesothelioma
Screening for mesothelioma is unfortunately not available in the UK at present. However, should it become possible and be introduced, screening would need to be reliable, easy to carry out, inexpensive and quick.
Diagnosis of mesothelioma is often notoriously difficult, although, since many of the usual lung tests show negative results, it can sometimes be suspected after a process of initial elimination.
Because it is such a rare disease, with only around 2000 diagnosed cases per year in the UK, it is believed it would make more sense to screen only those people who are believed to have been exposed to mesothelioma risks.
Since the major risk is asbestos, if in the past you, or a parent worked in an industry where asbestos was used, you believe you may have been exposed to it and you are experiencing some of the early symptoms of mesothelioma, you should discuss the situation with your doctor so that appropriate tests can be performed.
