mesothelioma

Over many years - usually decades - they can cause scarring which leads to a serious lung condition known as asbestosis, or, in some cases, an aggressive form of lung-cancer named mesothelioma.

The Belfast Trust said it was saddened to learn Ms Johnston had been diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Cases there have seen the company found liable for mesothelioma - an asbestos-specific cancer - and gynaecological cancers women suffered after using talc, with billions of dollars awarded in damages.

Helen Bone, from Marton-in-Cleveland, Middlesbrough, worked for 25 years as a nurse and believes she may have contracted mesothelioma in hospital buildings.

The remaining pending personal injury lawsuits that relate to mesothelioma will be addressed outside of the plan.