Action Mesothelioma Day 2026: asbestos risks raised in Parliament.

Action Mesothelioma Day 2026 took place on 3rd July.  Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. In support of the day, the risks associated with asbestos were raised in Parliament in an Early Day Motion.

Action Mesothelioma Day is a national awareness and remembrance day held on the first Friday in July each year. It brings together people affected by mesothelioma, their families, charities, support groups and professionals to remember those who have died and raise awareness of the continuing dangers of asbestos exposure. The day also highlights the need for better treatment, research and support for people living with mesothelioma. Events around the UK raise funds for research and campaign on behalf of asbestos victims and their families.

In support of the day, an Early Day Motion was tabled in Parliament. The full text can be found here.  The motion’s main points are:

• Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer primarily caused by inhaling asbestos fibres.
• Symptoms can develop many decades after the original exposure to asbestos.
• More than 2,700 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the UK each year.
• The disease has had a particularly severe impact on communities with industrial, construction, manufacturing, engineering, energy and shipbuilding histories.
• The day recognises the work of charities, support groups, trade unions, clinicians, researchers and campaigners.
• Campaigns seek greater access to justice, fair compensation, improved research, better treatment and increased support for people affected by asbestos-related diseases.
• Events such as Go Blue for Meso and Blue Light Walks encourage public participation and greater awareness.