Buying
precious time聟 | The
hidden epidemic - Keith McFadzien Jones' brave journey |
Mesothelioma
has been called the hidden epidemic. It's a cancer caused by breathing in
asbestos dust and mainly affects the lining of the lung. The symptoms can
take decades to show themselves. Inside Out in the East Midlands spent nine
months following the emotional story of Keith McFadzien Jones from Lincoln as
he volunteered for a treatment that could extend the lives of hundreds of people
suffering from the same disease. Keith had pioneering surgery at the Glenfield
Hospital in Leicester to remove a lung and the cancer that was surrounding it.
The operation held out the hope of extending his life by two years, possibly
longer. The mesothelioma was a terrible legacy of Keith's first job - making
asbestos fire doors as young apprentice joiner. As we filmed, Keith started
legal action for compensation. But Keith's cancer had spread too far. Despite
the best efforts of the medical team, his health deteriorated rapidly. Keith
died at the age of 51, wanting the documentary to be shown to highlight the plight
of the growing number of mesothelioma sufferers in the UK. Chilling statisticsThe
figures are chilling. In 1968, there were 153 deaths from mesothelioma.
When the epidemic peaks around 2015, it's predicted there'll be nearly
2,450. | Innovative
surgery sadly failed to save Keith's life |
Most victims are
people who were exposed to asbestos dust at work years ago - but who were never
warned of the dangers. A total ban on asbestos use in the UK was introduced
in the late 1990s. The surgery at the Glenfield has extended the lives of
others and the procedure is now undergoing a full clinical trial. The hospital
also has an information centre. More informationFor further information
contact: The National Macmillan Mesothelioma Resource Centre,
Hospital Management Offices, Glenfield Hospital, Groby Road, Leicester, LE3 9QP.
Helpline: 0800 169 2409
The centre provides up-to-date
information on mesothelioma and supports the development of specialist nursing
practice and research. Queries to the helpline can be referred to a specialist
mesothelioma nurse. Links relating to this story:The 成人快手 is not responsible for the
content of external websites |