Mesothelioma
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the lining that covers the outer surface of some of the body's organs. It mainly affects the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), although it can also affect the lining of the tummy (peritoneal mesothelioma), heart or testicles.
Regional Mesothelioma Clinical Nurse Specialist
Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust have hosted the Regional Mesothelioma Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) role since 2020. The service is jointly funded by a national charity (Mesothelioma UK) and the NHS Trusts from across the West Yorkshire & Harrogate Cancer Alliance.
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer which is strongly linked with asbestos exposure. The disease is incurable with poor average survival rates and is associated with a high symptom burden. In comparison with other disease sites, treatment options are limited. The region sees around 120 cases of this rare cancer every year.
Simon Bolton (pictured right) is the Mesothelioma CNS for the West & North Yorkshire region. He has worked as a CNS in thoracic malignancies for over 20 years, now working solely with those affected by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma UK clinical nurse specialists play a crucial role, providing compassionate care, expert guidance, and a comforting presence during difficult times. Their dedication ensures that patients receive the personalised attention they need, and their families find solace in knowing they are not alone on this journey.
Some of the Mesothelioma UK nurses are funded by partner organisations. The West & North Yorkshire post is full time and the first to be funded jointly between the charity and NHS.
Additional Resources
The following links provide additional information on Mesothelioma and organisations which can offer support.
Understanding Mesothelioma - downloadable booklet
Mesothelioma UK produce quarterly newsletters. Within the links below there’s an option to sign up to have all future issues of the newsletters delivered directly to your inbox.
