Posted on November 13th
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) was thrilled to join Lynn Bergeson, host of the National Law Review’s All Things Chemical® Podcast on October 24th, 2024. In the episode “A Conversation with Linda Reinstein, President and Cofounder of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO),” ADAO president and co-founder Linda Reinstein spoke to Lynn about the history of asbestos’s commercial use in the U.S. and the dangers of asbestos exposure. There is no safe level of exposure, and even the smallest amount can cause deadly illnesses, including mesothelioma and cancer of the lung, larynx, and ovaries.
Lynn and Linda dug into the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) failed attempt to ban asbestos back in 1989, the gaps found within current asbestos regulation, the ongoing battle to get legislation passed, and Linda’s personal experience of losing her husband to mesothelioma.
On the podcast, the two discussed how asbestos, used for centuries in construction and manufacturing—particularly in products like insulation and vehicle brakes—has become recognized globally as a severe health hazard due to its carcinogenic properties. Despite the well-documented dangers, achieving a full ban on asbestos has faced significant legal obstacles at both national and international levels. Linda’s story shines through as one of grit, perseverance, and unwavering devotion; her dedication to confronting these legal and regulatory challenges underscores the importance of continued advocacy. Her journey is a testament to resilience, demonstrating a tireless commitment to creating a safer future by pushing for comprehensive asbestos bans worldwide.
Linda explained that despite ADAO’s three successful ADAO v. EPA cases, there is still only piecemeal regulation. The bottom line discussed: The only way to fully protect Americans from the dangers of asbestos is to ban the carcinogen altogether.
The episode highlighted the importance of public advocacy and awareness in the efforts to ban asbestos, as well as the need for justice and compensation for those affected by asbestos-related diseases. We were also able to share the stories of some of our mesothelioma warriors and community members, who bravely speak up while fighting these deadly yet entirely preventable illnesses.
ADAO was honored to be able to share our expertise with Lynn, who asked wonderful questions and gave us the time to really dig into an unexplored and often overlooked topic. Thank you to Lynn and the entire team of the All Things Chemical® Podcast
The only way forward is banning asbestos. ADAO invites you to listen and share the episode on social media and send your ban asbestos letter to Congress — to ban asbestos once and for all.
