This month, the British Lung Foundation (BLF), supported by the Department of Health, the National Institute for Health Research, Medical Research Council and the British Thoracic Society, will be announcing funding opportunities for research into asbestos-related diseases at a research workshop for medical scientists and healthcare professionals. 

The one-day workshop, which will be held at the Wellcome Trust, London, on 23rd November 2010, will explore ‘Where next in asbestos research?' Leading international experts in the field will deliver presentations on various aspects of research including epidemiology of asbestos-related disease and the possible links between carbon nano-particles and occupational lung disease. 

Mesothelioma is just one disease caused by exposure to asbestos. As yet there is no cure and so the prognosis is bleak. Patients who are exposed to the material often do not develop any symptoms until 15 to 50 years after exposure to the fibres.  

The BLF is dedicated to providing better treatment for people who fall victim to the debilitating illnesses. The charity is now looking for researchers who are ready to take on the challenge to search for potential new treatments or cures or for improved palliative care for the terminal diseases. 

Ian Jarrold, Research Manager at the British Lung Foundation, said: "We need to find better treatments for patients with asbestos-related diseases. Although mesothelioma is a cancer, the services available for it are extremely poor. We are looking for good quality research that will improve the care pathway for people with asbestos-related diseases and ensure that people do not suffer any longer." 

To find out more about the event and the programme please visit www.lunguk.org/research_and_grants .

To register interest in attending the workshop please email asbestosworkshop@blf-uk.org , however places are limited so get in touch soon to avoid disappointment.