First Scots asbestos nurse appointed

A charity has funded Scotland’s first specialist nurse supporting people who are living with the effects of asbestos exposure.

The new post targeted specifically at people living with asbestos and respiratory work related illnesses will be based at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

Scotland’s largest asbestos charity Charity Clydeside Action on Asbestos will fund the specialist role to help combat Scotland’s growing toll of deadly asbestos disease which is the highest in the Western World.

The number of people dying of asbestos disease is predicted to continue rising until the year 2035. Growingnumbersofwomen and those who worked in non-industrial professions are developing asbestos disease. This is due in large part to the substance beingpresentinmanypublic building like schools and hospitals over many decades.

Phyllis Craig MBE, one of the directors of CAA said, “These conditions can be difficult to diagnose and once they are it is vital that patients have access to the very best medical care, information and support.”

The new CAA Respiratory Nurse Specialist Kim Bracher said “My post will allow me to look at new and innovative ways to help people in Scotland manage their condition.”