The devastating effects of asbestos diseases continue to impact on thousands of Australian families each year and new research shows that the effects are more widespread than previously thought.
The Southern Cross University launched the research this week which investigated the social, psychological and economic impacts of asbestos-related diseases on sufferers, carers and their families.
Researchers were able to gain valuable insight from participants of a peer-to-peer online community, the ‘Dusted Community’ and what they found was that those living in regional areas are often isolated and looking for a way to connect with people in similar situations.
An important part of the research showed emerging technology has a role to play in reducing the social isolation.
Perhaps online communities such as this is the way forward in helping provide support for those feeling isolated while dealing with this deadly disease.
I must commend all the online community participants for being so brave and sharing their experiences.
We see firsthand how families are affected by asbestos, which is why we wholeheartedly support any effort that will hopefully lead to further research and one day a cure.
Joanne Wade, Slater & Gordon
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
