Article Facts

The fashion world was saddened last week by the death of former Sex Pistols manager and punk fashion leader Malcolm McLaren, after he lost his battle with cancer, aged 64.

McLaren was known by many for setting up his ‘Sex’ boutique on the Kings Road, with then partner Vivienne Westwood, where their punk inspired clothing, including fetish and bondage wear, was an instant hit with British youth.

But McLaren’s partner Young Kim has suggested that his beloved shop may have been the reason behind his cancer, and in turn his death, after he was exposed to asbestos there for prolonged periods of time, following some DIY renovations.

He decided he wanted the roof to look as though a bomb had hit it and so ripped through some of the ceiling to give this effect. In doing so the asbestos which had previously been unseen became damaged and exposed, which is when it can cause illness. In subsequent years McLaren spent much of his time in the shop, which of course meant he was exposed to asbestos.

Lung is the most common type of cancer relating to asbestos exposure, and asbestos lung cancer develops in the tissue surrounding a lung and can obstruct air passages making breathing difficult.

McLaren became concerned in his later life that he had developed cancer, and shared his worries with his doctor. Spots were found on his lungs, but the doctor assured McLaren they were benign and it was only in 2009 that he was actually diagnosed with lung cancer. It is unclear whether an earlier diagnosis would have saved his life, but that is certainly what those close to him suspect.

While those close to Malcolm, and the fashion and music worlds come to terms with his death, his partner is considering whether or not to make a complaint relating to the doctor involved.

Need more information on (http://www.whatsmyasbestosclaimworth.com) exposure to asbestos? (http://www.oliverandco.co.uk) Chester solicitor Oliver & Co are asbestos experts and their site has more details relating to asbestos and its effects.