A new book has been launched to help people with the asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma. ‘Understanding Mesothelioma’ has been produced by the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre at the University of Sheffield and focuses on the experience of living with mesothelioma, from the perspective of people with mesothelioma and their families.
Understanding Mesothelioma provides context regarding mesothelioma, what it is and why it occurs. The book profiles the range of experiences across the patient pathway to highlight implications for care delivered by professionals and staff in health care, social care and the charitable/voluntary sector.
Mesothelioma is a cancer related to exposure to asbestos and predominantly affects the lining of the lungs. The UK has the highest incidence of the disease in the world with around 2,700 people diagnosed each year.
‘Understanding Mesothelioma: The Experiences and Care Needs of People with Mesothelioma and their Families’ has been edited By Angela Tod, Bethany Taylor, Clare Gardiner and Liz Darlison. Insights are drawn from experienced-based research conducted by members of the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, the wider mesothelioma research community, published literature and various topic experts.
The new book is available from Routledge and can be purchased online here. It is available for pre-order from 2 September 2025 and will be officially launched at the annual Mesothelioma UK Patient and Carer Day at the King Power Stadium in Leicester on 7 October 2025.
Liz Darlison, Chief Executive of Mesothelioma UK, said: “This new book explains the lived experience of mesothelioma, both in the UK and internationally, and how it impacts on the lives of those with the illness and their families.
“We would like to thank all those who participated to add their insight and in particular, the team at the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre for their diligent work.”
Professor Angela Tod, Co-Director at the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre added: “We hope that this book will help people to understand what it is like to live with a complex condition like mesothelioma. The content is drawn from the research, knowledge and expertise that the authors have developed over the years. We hope that it will be of help to people. We are extremely grateful to all those who have shared their experiences so generously and made this book possible.”
