UPDATE: As the health crisis deepens, Montenegro faces a concerning lack of data regarding seafarers suffering from asbestos exposure. Nađa Pavlović, director of the Udrženje Pomoraca Oboljelih od Azbesta (UPOA), confirmed that the country currently lacks official statistics on the number of affected sailors, highlighting an urgent need for action.
In a shocking revelation, Pavlović stated, “Unfortunately, there is no accurate data on the total number of our seafarers suffering from asbestos exposure, complicating our mission.” This alarming gap in information raises serious health concerns as these workers face severe illnesses such as mesothelioma, leukemia, and lung cancer due to their hazardous working conditions.
Despite repeated inquiries sent on December 9, 2023, to the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, responses have been scarce. Only the Health Insurance Fund (FZO) provided a brief statement, indicating they are not responsible for these inquiries.
Pavlović emphasized the critical need for a comprehensive register of affected seafarers, stating, “Symptoms of asbestosis can appear even 30 to 40 years after exposure, making it vital to collect this data now.” She noted that asbestos was widely used in ship construction due to its fire-resistant properties, despite known health risks.
The UPOA, established just last year, aims to assist affected seafarers in obtaining the compensation they deserve for health issues linked to asbestos exposure. The organization connects directly with sailors and their families, helping them navigate legal processes and medical documentation requirements.
“We are here to ensure that the price paid for health does not go unrecognized,” Pavlović stressed, urging all affected individuals or their families to reach out for support. The UPOA provides free legal assistance to help victims secure justice.
With similar organizations existing in Italy and Greece, the UPOA seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos and the long-term health repercussions it can cause. Pavlović called for immediate action from authorities, saying, “There has been a lack of attention to the deadly consequences of asbestos exposure until recent years.”
As the crisis unfolds, the UPOA’s mission becomes increasingly urgent. They are urging anyone who has suffered from serious illnesses related to asbestos exposure to contact them via email at [email protected] or call +382 69 050 151.
The health and safety of Montenegro’s maritime workforce hang in the balance, and immediate action is required to address this public health emergency. As the world watches, the call for justice and reform in support of these vulnerable workers grows louder.
