Calling this number connects you with a Patient Advocate at The Mesothelioma Center, the nation's most trusted mesothelioma resource.
Our Patient Advocates can help guide you or your loved one through the steps to take after a mesothelioma diagnosis. Our team has a combined experience of more than 30 years in assisting cancer patients, and includes a medical doctor, an oncology registered nurse and a U.S. Navy veteran.
Mesothelioma Awareness Day takes place annually on Sept. 26. On this day, patients, family members, doctors and the mesothelioma community raise awareness of the rare cancer to help find a cure. Supporters wear blue and may wear mesothelioma awareness wristbands or ribbons.
Raise awareness of mesothelioma and show support for those with the disease.
Our fact-checking process begins with a thorough review of all sources to ensure they are high quality. Then we cross-check the facts with original medical or scientific reports published by those sources, or we validate the facts with reputable news organizations, medical and scientific experts and other health experts. Each page includes all sources for full transparency.
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Asbestos.com is the nation’s most trusted mesothelioma resource
The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com has provided patients and their loved ones the most updated and reliable information on mesothelioma and asbestos exposure since 2006.
Our team of Patient Advocates includes a medical doctor, a registered nurse, health services administrators, veterans, VA-accredited Claims Agents, an oncology patient navigator and hospice care expert. Their combined expertise means we help any mesothelioma patient or loved one through every step of their cancer journey.
More than 30 contributors, including mesothelioma doctors, survivors, health care professionals and other experts, have peer-reviewed our website and written unique research-driven articles to ensure you get the highest-quality medical and health information.
About The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com
Assisting mesothelioma patients and their loved ones since 2006.
Helps more than 50% of mesothelioma patients diagnosed annually in the U.S.
A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
5-star reviewed mesothelioma and support organization.
My family has only the highest compliment for the assistance and support that we received from The Mesothelioma Center. This is a staff of compassionate and knowledgeable individuals who respect what your family is experiencing and who go the extra mile to make an unfortunate diagnosis less stressful. Information and assistance were provided by The Mesothelioma Center at no cost to our family.
Marchese, S. (2024, February 2). Mesothelioma Awareness. Asbestos.com. Retrieved April 18, 2024, from https://www.asbestos.com/mesothelioma/awareness/
MLA
Marchese, Sean. "Mesothelioma Awareness." Asbestos.com, 2 Feb 2024, https://www.asbestos.com/mesothelioma/awareness/.
Chicago
Marchese, Sean. "Mesothelioma Awareness." Asbestos.com. Last modified February 2, 2024. https://www.asbestos.com/mesothelioma/awareness/.
What Is Mesothelioma Awareness Day?
Mesothelioma Awareness Day takes place on Sept. 26. The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation established it in 2004. Congress first declared Sept. 26 as National Mesothelioma Awareness Day in 2010.
Mesothelioma Awareness Day unites survivors, caregivers and loved ones. It honors those affected by this rare disease. The Mesothelioma Center also recognizes September as Mesothelioma Awareness Month. Throughout September, we connect with patients and their advocates to spread awareness about asbestos-related illnesses.
Supporters observe the day by wearing blue and sharing photos on social media. Many people wear mesothelioma awareness bracelets or ribbons.
Organizations and advocates put on fundraisers and run awareness campaigns to get the word out. Events such as iWalk4Meso, Miles for Meso and Kayaking 4 Meso raise funds for research. They also educate the public about the health effects of asbestos exposure.
Every sign of support means a lot to families affected by mesothelioma. In 2024, Mesothelioma Awareness Day will celebrate its 20th anniversary. Over the past two decades, the community has raised awareness by calling for asbestos bans, connecting with cancer specialists and hosting engaging events.
Why Is Spreading Mesothelioma Awareness Important?
Raising awareness is vital because deaths from mesothelioma are preventable. A worldwide ban on asbestos can halt asbestos exposure and the devastating illnesses it causes.
Awareness events educate the public about the dangers of asbestos exposure. They prevent misinformation about the disease. They also allow doctors to share new data. For example, a 2021 mesothelioma case study outlined a rare instance of cutaneous metastasis. Knowledge of this rare occurrence can prevent misdiagnosis in other patients.
Even after 40-plus years as a nurse, I knew as much about mesothelioma as the average person — which wasn’t much. Sept. 26 marks Mesothelioma Awareness Day, something I didn’t know existed until I became an advocate for others. That alone shows how much work needs to be done.
EMILY WARD
Pleural Mesothelioma Survivor
Each year, asbestos-related diseases kill more than 100,000 workers worldwide. An estimated 2,500 to 3,000 people in the United States die yearly from mesothelioma. Increasing awareness of mesothelioma helps raise funds for research. It improves clinical trial participation, which is low compared to more common cancers such as breast and prostate cancer.
How We Spread Mesothelioma Awareness
The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com is the nation’s most trusted mesothelioma resource. Since 2006, we’ve helped families cope with mesothelioma.
The Mesothelioma Center’s website is, in my opinion, the best resource for anyone suffering from cancer due to asbestos. Thank you for helping me determine the best treatment plan for my cancer and being part of my miracle.
PATRICIA H
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Survivor
We provide resources, support, medical information and assistance finding financial aid. The following are just some ways we work daily to raise mesothelioma awareness.
More than half of people diagnosed with the disease turn to The Mesothelioma Center for support every year.
Our Patient Advocate team, which includes a medical doctor, a registered oncology nurse and a U.S. Army veteran, has more than 30 years of combined experience helping cancer patients.
Our network of more than 20 mesothelioma survivors, board-certified doctors, and health care professionals write and medically review our content to ensure we deliver the most medically up-to-date information to the mesothelioma community.
We are the most reviewed organization serving the mesothelioma community. We have five out of five stars from patients and loved ones for our support and resources.
Jose Ortiz, medical outreach liaison for The Mesothelioma Center, at a Pacific Mesothelioma Center event.
The Mesothelioma Center understands how crucial it is to protect public health and prevent needless suffering. By raising awareness, mobilizing communities and engaging with policymakers, we aim to create a world that no longer tolerates using asbestos in any form.
The history of mesothelioma shows us that there are misconceptions about the disease. The Mesothelioma Center and other organizations work to educate the public about mesothelioma and the risks of asbestos exposure.
Other Organizations and Events Raising Mesothelioma Awareness
Several organizations are working hard to raise public awareness about mesothelioma. These organizations raise money to fund medical research and advocate for a complete ban on asbestos.
Education and Research Advocacy Organizations
Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO). ADAO educates the public on the dangers of asbestos exposure. Founded in 2004 by Linda Reinstein and Doug Larkin, ADAO also advocates protecting children, teachers and faculty from asbestos in schools.
International Mesothelioma Interest Group. iMiG organizes an international asbestos conference and created the iMiG Research Award. It recognizes work with significance and impact on the future of mesothelioma treatment.
International Symposium on Malignant Mesothelioma. The International Symposium is a three-day event covering the latest treatment advances. It serves as an informational exchange among researchers, oncologists and surgeons.
John McNamara Foundation. The McNamara family created a foundation in memory of John McNamara, who died from mesothelioma in 2007. The foundation gives support to people affected by mesothelioma and unites the community.
Miles for Meso. Launched in 2009, Miles for Meso is a series of nationwide races and walks that spread mesothelioma awareness. The races raise money for improved mesothelioma treatment options. They’ve raised more than $250,000 for research.
National Asbestos Awareness Week. National Asbestos Awareness Week educates the public about the dangers of asbestos. A conference held the first week of April covers asbestos issues, advancements in treatment for asbestos-related diseases and more.
Pacific Mesothelioma Center. PMC is a nonprofit that conducts groundbreaking research on mesothelioma treatment procedures. PMC sponsors the annual International Symposium on Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma.
These groups and many others worldwide work tirelessly to shed light on mesothelioma and its devastating impact. Through their collective efforts, they strive to increase awareness, improve patient outcomes and ultimately work toward a future where mesothelioma is preventable and manageable.
Miles for Meso is an annual marathon to raise awareness and help find a cure for mesothelioma.
The dedication and advocacy of awareness groups are vital. They ensure that those affected by mesothelioma receive the support they need. These groups drive progress toward better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Several advocacy groups and organizations are dedicated to achieving a complete ban on asbestos due to its well-documented health hazards. These groups recognize that the best way to prevent asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, is to eliminate exposure to this harmful mineral.
Asbestos Ban Advocacy Organizations
Ban Asbestos Network India. Gopal Krishna is the founder of Ban Asbestos Network India (BANI). In 2008, Krishna demanded that records on the dangers of asbestos become public under India’s Right to Information Act. In 2018, BANI advocated for safer working conditions for those who work on asbestos-contaminated ships.
International Ban Asbestos Secretariat. Founded in 2000, IBAS counters misinformation and provides a platform for victims to speak out. The IBAS website allows concerned individuals to follow the worldwide effort to ban the toxic mineral. IBAS works with organizations in developing countries to help them reach a broader audience.
The ultimate goal of these organizations is to ensure that all countries are free from the dangers of asbestos exposure. They work to create a safer and healthier world by advocating for an asbestos ban.
There is a lack of awareness [about mesothelioma], and symptoms are vague. People don’t know what to be looking for. Most providers encounter it infrequently in their careers. We need to raise awareness of this cancer and its symptoms, so we can identify and treat patients earlier.
DR. CHARLES B. SIMONE
Radiation Oncologist
All awareness groups aim to reduce the incidence of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. More than 70 activist organizations spread awareness about the dangers of asbestos.
Organizations Raising Asbestos Awareness
Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization
Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia
Asbestos Diseases Society of Victoria
Asbestos Victims Association (SA) Inc.
Asbestos Victims Families Casale
Asian Ban Asbestos Network
Associazione Esposti Amianto
Right on Canada
Ban Asbestos Canada
Ban Asbestos France
Ban Asbestos Network Japan
Ban Asbestos Network of India
Ban Asbestos Philippines
International Ban Asbestos Secretariat
Associazione Famigliari e Vittime dell’Amianto
Asociación Argentina de Expuestos al Amianto
Associacão Brasileira dos Expostos ao Amianto
Association Belge des Victimes de l’Amiante
Greater Manchester Asbestos Victims Support Group
Association Nationale de Défense des Victimes de l’Amiante
Asian Network for the Rights of Occupational Accident Victims
Advocacy organizations supporting mesothelioma patients and their families are crucial in providing various assistance and resources. They strive to empower and uplift those affected by asbestos, fostering a sense of community to ensure future generations are spared from similar illnesses.
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How Can You Participate in Mesothelioma Awareness Day?
Join community events and activities hosted by local or national organizations. Try walking in a fundraising event, such as Miles for Meso. Or wear an awareness wristband to spread awareness of this rare and deadly cancer.
In September 2022, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation held the Light the World Blue campaign. The event involved worldwide community members working together to use blue lighting for awareness of mesothelioma.
Ways you can get involved on Mesothelioma Awareness Day:
Donate to mesothelioma research and support groups.
Get involved in online discussions on social media about asbestos.
Sign up for a mesothelioma event such as Miles for Meso.
Watch one of The Mesothelioma Center’s educational webinars.
Write or email your politicians about stricter asbestos laws and regulations.
For Mesothelioma Awareness Day in 2023, sharing your support on social media is an excellent way to raise awareness. On Sept. 26, use popular hashtags such as #MesotheliomaAwarenessDay.
There are many ways you can celebrate the work of health care providers and researchers and participate in the discussion about a global asbestos ban. Raising awareness means you’re supporting the thousands of patients and families affected by asbestos-related diseases.
Common Questions About Mesothelioma Awareness
What day is Mesothelioma Awareness Day?
National Mesothelioma Awareness Day is Sept. 26. Patients, caretakers, family members and friends join. They promote the work that health care teams are doing to find a cure for mesothelioma. The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation founded it in 2004. It has since united survivors and those affected by mesothelioma disease.
What is the color of mesothelioma cancer awareness?
Blue is the color of mesothelioma awareness. Supporters wear blue awareness wristbands or ribbons. Many supporters also wear bracelets, necklaces and clothing. Show support for mesothelioma patients, and promote the message by sharing photos on social media.
What are some ways I can support mesothelioma survivors?
Join races that raises funds for medical research. Miles for Meso and iWalk4Meso offer virtual options. Supporters may call their political representatives to insist on an asbestos ban in the U.S.
Sharing awareness on social media also helps support mesothelioma survivors. The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization often hosts chats on Twitter. Survivors, supporters and experts can connect and share information. Donating to organizations also helps advocate for the mesothelioma community.
When is Mesothelioma Awareness Month?
September is recognized as Mesothelioma Awareness Month, when advocates and supporters rally together to raise awareness about this devastating disease. Throughout the month, individuals and organizations engage in various activities and initiatives, such as educational campaigns, fundraising events and community gatherings. Supporters spread knowledge, share resources and assist those affected by mesothelioma.
EMILY WARDPleural Mesothelioma Survivor
PATRICIA HPeritoneal Mesothelioma Survivor
