Workers in the north-east who believe they may have been exposed to asbestos have been urged to seek help.
Health and Safety Executive figures show twice as many patients sought treatment in the NHS Grampian area in 2011-12 than in 2006-7.
Following an information day held in Aberdeen, the charity Asbestos Action Tayside (AAT) has warned people who work in construction or buildings where the substance was used, such as schools and hospitals, may be at risk.
Exposure can lead to mesothelioma, a form of cancer, and other illnesses.
Support officer John Fearn said: “People throughout the region suffer from asbestos-related illnesses as a result of exposure during their working lives, through no fault of their own.
“Some conditions may be relatively harmless, but others can have devastating consequences for the sufferer and their families.”
Digby Brown Solicitors work with AAT to help individuals affected claim compensation.
Specialist solicitor Lisa Gregory said: “Asbestos-related illnesses are often seen as conditions of the past but nothing could be further from the truth.
“Where employers have failed in their duty of care by exposing their workers to asbestos, they should be held to account.”
For more information, contact the AAT helpline on 01382 225 715.