Mesothelioma Awareness

What Is Mesothelioma Awareness Day?

Mesothelioma Awareness Day takes place on Sept. 26. The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation established it in 2004. In 2010, Congress first declared Sept. 26 as National Mesothelioma Awareness Day.

Mesothelioma Awareness Day unites survivors, caregivers and loved ones. It honors those affected by this rare disease.

Supporters observe 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.

Every sign of support means a lot to families affected by mesothelioma.

Caregiver shares the importance of mesothelioma awareness Lorraine Kember | 1:00

Reflecting on Mesothelioma Awareness Day

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.

Organizations and Events Spreading 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.

The history of mesothelioma shows us there are misconceptions about the disease. These organizations work to educate the public about mesothelioma and the risks of asbestos exposure.

How The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com Spreads Awareness

The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com is the nation’s most trusted mesothelioma resource. Since 2006, we’ve helped families cope with mesothelioma. We provide resources, support, medical information and assistance finding financial aid.

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

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)

ADAO educates the public on the dangers of asbestos exposure and advocates for legislation to ban asbestos. Linda Reinstein and Doug Larkin founded it in April 2004.

ADAO hosts an Asbestos Awareness Conference. Patients and experts gather to discuss new treatment options. The conference pays tribute to those affected by mesothelioma. It also strives to educate the public on the hazards of asbestos.

ADAO also advocates for protecting children, teachers and faculty from asbestos in schools.

National Asbestos Awareness Week

National Asbestos Awareness Week educates the public about the dangers of asbestos. Held the first week of April, it started as National Asbestos Awareness Day in 2005.

All asbestos and mesothelioma organizations observe this week, which typically occurs in the spring and is highlighted by a multiday International Asbestos Awareness Conference.

All asbestos and mesothelioma organizations observe this week. ADAO hosts a multi-day International Asbestos Awareness Conference. It brings together a variety of doctors, speakers and survivors. They cover 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. It was among the first to advocate lung-sparing surgery for mesothelioma.

Dr. Robert Cameron is the lead surgeon at PMC and the symposium leader. Cameron believes lung-sparing surgery should be adopted as the preferred surgical treatment for pleural mesothelioma.

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.

Its “Drop the Rock” campaign raised awareness about the dangers of asbestos in serpentine rock. It sought to find a suitable replacement for California’s state mineral.

Survivor Story

Mesothelioma Survivor Reunites With Surgeon for HIPEC Webinar

Over the years I have participated in many mesothelioma webinars. I really enjoy interacting with others from the cancer community, sharing my story…

Miles for Meso

Launched in 2009, Miles for Meso is a series of races and walks held throughout the country to spread mesothelioma awareness.

The races raise money for improved mesothelioma treatment options. They’ve raised more than $250,000 for mesothelioma research.

International Mesothelioma Interest Group

It organizes an international conference on mesothelioma research. It takes place every two years. Locations have included Paris, Amsterdam, Cape Town, Kyoto and Chicago.

In 2016, iMiG 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 on Malignant Mesothelioma unites patients, doctors and other cancer experts. The three-day event covers the latest advances in treatment. It also raises awareness about mesothelioma.

The symposium serves as an informational exchange among researchers, oncologists and surgeons. It also gives patients and families a place to learn more and share ideas.

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

Ban Asbestos Network India

One of the most outspoken advocates for banning asbestos in India is Gopal Krishna, the founder of Ban Asbestos Network India (BANI). Krishna told the media that the asbestos market is snowballing, so “nobody has time for complaints.”

In 2008, Krishna demanded that records on the dangers of asbestos become public under India’s Right to Information Act. Most of the Indian public still does not have access to this information.

In 2018, BANI advocated for safer working conditions for those who work on asbestos-contaminated ships. BANI continues to push the government and spread awareness in India.

International Ban Asbestos Secretariat

Founded in 2000, IBAS counters misinformation and provides a platform for victims to speak out.

IBAS recognizes the power of the propaganda spread by asbestos lobbying organizations. It fights back by educating the public.

The IBAS website allows concerned individuals to follow the worldwide effort to ban the toxic mineral. It works with organizations in developing countries. For example, it worked with the Brazilian Association of People Exposed to Asbestos. It helps them reach a broader audience through its vast network.

More than 70 activist organizations spread awareness about the dangers of asbestos, including:

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 involves community members worldwide working together. It encourages local governments to use blue lighting to support mesothelioma awareness.

Sharing your support on social media is another excellent way to raise mesothelioma awareness. On Sept. 26, use popular hashtags, such as #MesotheliomaAwarenessDay. Celebrate the work of health care providers and discuss a global asbestos ban. 

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.