The GEMS study was carried out after consultation with health and legal professionals indicating that women may have a different experience to men in terms of awareness of the disease, diagnosis, access to treatment and compensation and legal processes.
Researchers from the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre carried out interviews with patients and key findings included:
- High risk occupations for men differed from high-risk occupations for women
- Women of all ages and younger men lacked awareness of the dangers of asbestos exposure
- Gender differences existed in the experiences of explanations and support provided at the time of diagnosis
- Men and women’s roles within the family and society influenced how they coped with a diagnosis of mesothelioma
- Men and women had different ways of communicating with professionals along the mesothelioma pathway
- Familial and social expectations of men and women influenced their willingness to pursue civil compensation
A full copy of the GEMS report, detailing the findings and recommendations, is now available on the Mesothelioma UK website.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who took part in this research which provides valuable insights into the experiences of women and men living with mesothelioma. The findings and implications from GEMS will provide some guidance and support for professionals working with men and women living with mesothelioma.”
Prof Angela Tod, co-director MURC