The 2012 Australian reality TV series “The Block” has served as a reminder to home renovators about the dangers of asbestos, even at low levels.

Shows such as The Block can sometimes encourage home owners to undertake renovation works.

It is imperative that if you do undertake home renovations, you firstly find out whether or not there is asbestos in your home. If there is, it should be removed in a proper and safe manner.

Low doses of asbestos can result in a person suffering mesothelioma, being a cancer of the lining of the lung or abdomen.

In the past, we have acted for many persons who developed mesothelioma following relatively low exposures to asbestos.

Since 2008, the chemotherapy drug Alimta has been available in Australia through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme when used on someone suffering mesothelioma, the asbestos related cancer.

The manufactures of Alimta, hold the view that this chemotherapy drug is a treatment for pleural mesothelioma in combination with cisplatin (another chemotherapy drug) in circumstances when surgery is not an option.

Over the last few years, many of our clients suffering mesothelioma have undergone Alimta treatment with some reporting very positive results.

It is important to note however that individuals suffering mesothelioma should speak with their treating specialist to see whether this treatment is appropriate in their specific circumstance.

Those suffering pleural mesothelioma often initially experience extreme shortness of breath. Often, a fluid build up in the pleura (which covers the lung) causes this breathlessness. This fluid build up is known as a pleural effusion.

A pleurodesis is a procedure whereby talcum powder is inserted into the pleura to stick both layers of the pleura together. The intention of a pleurodesis is to prevent the re-accumulation of fluid in the pleural space.

A study published in the European Journal of Radiology noted that 58% of patients (in a study of 99 persons) presented with large pleural effusions for which a pleurodesis offered potential relief. A pleurodesis is considered successful when no further fluid accumulates.

In South Australia, we have found that for someone suffering a pleural mesothelioma, a pleurodesis if often (but not always) suggested.

Clearly whether or not a pleurodesis should be performed following the diagnosis of mesothelioma is something that must be determined by your specialist.

The ABC journalist Matt Peacock undertook extensive research when writing this book. He interviewed many former employees of James Hardie, some who were suffering mesothelioma, the asbestos related cancer.

Matt Peacock is no stranger to the dangers of asbestos. In 1977 he presented in a radio series warning of the dangers of asbestos.

The book looks at the James Hardie management system over many years and identifies what was known through his many interviews.

Use of James Hardie products have resulted in many persons suffering mesothelioma in Australia.