Woman’s Death of Malignant Mesothelioma From Office Wall

A British woman has past away from malignant mesothelioma after spending her career working next to an asbestos dust filled wall. Frances Davis, 89 was diagnosed with the disease in October of 2008.

Between 1972 and 1985 Davis worked at Companies House in London where she sent microfiche reports through a hole in an asbestos filled wall to adjoining rooms. The wall was eventually demolished but she told her sons Robert and John that it was not properly covered and dust would often escape into the office.

Her sons described her as a very fit older woman who was an active golfer and danced the Cancan into her 70s. However, in her 80s the effects of the disease started to take place and lead her to claim compensation.

Asbestos exposure can lead to a number of illnesses including asbestosis and malignant mesothelioma. The symptoms can take 20 to 50 years to appear and by that time, it is often too late for any effective treatment. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was popularly used in shipyards and construction for its high insulation and fireproofing qualities.

An inquest into the cause of Mrs. Davis’s death by coroner Peter Bedford confirmed that it was industrial disease.