An evaluation of the likely future cancer risks from asbestos contamination in Wider Armley and other areas of West Leeds

Previous studies have shown that homes in the Aviary’s housing estate of West Leeds, close to the site of a former asbestos factory, are contaminated loose asbestos fibres. This research makes an assessment of the probable future asbestos-related risks to health for the residents of the area of West Leeds, in which the factory site and the Aviary’s estate are located, excluding the Aviary’s estate. The main aim of the work was to help define any actions that should be taken by Leeds City Council to manage the risk to the local population. Lifetime risks of death from mesothelioma were estimated using a mathematical model of the relationship between the estimated quantity of asbestos that might be inhaled in the future and details of the population. There are approximately 34,000 people living within the area, although because of the age of the houses only about 8,000 live in homes that may be contaminated with loose asbestos. The study concludes that there will probably be no cancer deaths from the asbestos contamination if the people in this area continue to live in their homes for a further 20 years. We consider that the risks are so small that the Council should not take any action to manage the situation. “”