3 Mesothelioma Organizations Patients Should Know About

There are many organizations throughout the United States as well as the world who focus on mesothelioma research and spreading awareness. These groups are nonprofits who provide a variety of services to aid in the fight against this terrible disease. 

Each organization does great work in fundraising for researchers to continue looking for new and improved treatments for mesothelioma patients. 

Oftentimes, these groups are able to provide:

• Awareness about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma: Asbestos exposure is the only scientifically proven cause of mesothelioma. Each year, 3,000 people are diagnosed with this disease in the U.S. Today, our country remains one of the few who still has not officially banned asbestos.

• Offer relief to patients and families: A mesothelioma diagnosis can take a toll on patients and their families. These groups have the knowledge and resources to help them navigate this challenging time. 

• Lobby Politicians: Politicians can help the continued effort to push for an asbestos ban.

• Support new research and treatments: Currently, there is no cure for this aggressive cancer. The main mission of these groups is to find that cure. Funding new treatments is an essential part of their existence. 

Unfortunately, these groups rely on donations from everyday people to keep their missions alive. Without donations they would not be able to support cancer patients, ban this toxic substance, or continue looking for a cure. 

 Here is a list of the top three mesothelioma organizations.

1. The Meso Foundation

The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (The Meso Foundation) was founded in 1999 to promote research for this rare cancer. This organization has raised over $10 million for mesothelioma clinical research. 

Patients can go to their website and find treatment options as well as basic information about mesothelioma. You can also be connected to cancer specialists, clinical trials and find financial assistance. This group offers advice for caregivers and runs several support groups for patients and their families.

2. The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) is currently the largest U.S. non-profit who focuses on asbestos advocacy. In 2004, Doug Larkin and Linda Reinstein formed this group in California. 

The ADAO helps raise awareness by providing people with an online resource library full of information on asbestos exposure and mesothelioma treatment options. They also have a strong focus on helping people take action against asbestos exposure through signing petitions and several community initiatives. Their most notable initiative is the Annual International Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference they have held the last 15 years.

3. The LUNGevity Foundation

LUNGevity Foundation was established in Chicago in 2001 by seven lung cancer patients. Their main goal is to spread awareness and find a cure. 

This foundation provides a supportive place where lung cancer patients can go to receive assistance. LUNGevity also spends a large part of their efforts seeking funding to help research lung cancer and other related diseases like mesothelioma.