Posted on November 17, 2014
ADAO is delighted to be presenting at the American Public Health Association’s (APHA) 142th Annual Meeting and Exposition, to be held in New Orleans on November 15-19. Founded in 1872, the APHA is the oldest and most diverse organization of public health professionals in the world. Over 13,000 national and international physicians, administrators, nurses, educators, researchers, epidemiologists, and health specialists attend the conference to discuss current and emerging health science, policy, and practice issues in an effort to prevent disease and promote health.
The theme of the conference is “Remember History: Worker Health & Safety in the U.S. and Across the Globe.” Worker safety is an issue that has always been close to ADAO’s heart as occupational asbestos exposure is one of the largest contributor to mesothelioma cases around the globe. High risk trades such as automotive, construction, shipbuilding, and veterans, all experience higher cases of mesothelioma than those in other occupations. Such staggering statistics like “construction workers were found to be 11 times more likely to develop mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure at the site,” emphasize the importance of improving worker safety and reducing asbestos exposure.
Although I will not be physically present due to a conflicting conference, I am honored to have Mark Catlin present on ADAO’s behalf the “History and Impact of Asbestos on OHS in U.S. and Internationally.” This presentation will provide a brief historical overview of the global asbestos crisis including: U.S. policies and legislation, the corporate “scientific” studies funded by the pro-asbestos industries and their impact on legislation and civil justice, and the emergence of digital activism for change.
ADAO salutes the APHA for their leadership, innovation, and commitment to protecting public health.
If you are unable to be at the conference in person, be sure to follow APHA and me via our social networks!
In unity,
Linda