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 it has been suggested that it was the shop he loved so much which ultimately lead to his death, after he was exposed to asbestos during his time there. It is though that there was board asbestos within the building and this was disturbed when McLaren made some alterations to the shop.
In keeping with the shops anarchic theme McLaren had ripped down some of the ceiling material inside the shop as he wanted it to look bomb damaged, and it was in this ceiling that there was board asbestos, a known cause of lung cancer. Following the renovation Malcolm (and indeed Vivienne), spent a great deal of his time in the shop, meaning he was continually exposed to asbestos.
Lung Cancer is the most common type of cancer linked to asbestos exposure, and is found in those who have been exposed to asbestos and it’s fibres over time. Asbestos lung cancer develops in the tissue that surrounds the lungs and can obstruct air passages making it difficult to breath.
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.
If you want to find out more about exposure to asbestos, and asbestos related illness, Chester solicitors Oliver & Co have a wide range of experience and detailed information on their website.