Posted on March 29, 2024

Each year, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) dedicates April 1-7 to increasing awareness of asbestos and preventing exposure by bringing together experts and victims from around the world to share, learn, and take action. To view all 7 days of Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW) content, please click here. Be sure to follow the online conversation by using #2024GAAW. 

Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and there is no safe level of exposure. While promising research continues, prevention remains the only cure.

On Day Four of Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW), under the banner “Asbestos: Partnering for Prevention and Justice,” we are inspired by Mike’s uplifting tale, “Staying Positive.” His story of hope in the face of adversity illuminates our path as we forge ahead in our mission against asbestos. If we have learned anything in the past two decades, it’s that we must remain hopeful in order to truly overcome the manmade crisis that is asbestos. 

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) prides itself on nurturing a close-knit community that is ardently dedicated to driving crucial legislative reforms related to asbestos importation and use. ADAO was founded so that no one would ever feel alone when they heard the diagnosis of “mesothelioma.” We wanted there to be a community, as well as resources, where Warriors and families could land. We have stayed true to this mission for nearly 20 years. The essence of our effectiveness lies in our collaborative spirit and shared commitment to change.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Raja Flores, MD, Chair of Thoracic Surgery at Mt. Sinai and a valued member of the ADAO Science Advisory Board, for his steadfast dedication to education and prevention. He poignantly reminds us that “members of Congress can do more with a pen to prevent asbestos-caused diseases than I can with a scalpel.” This statement encapsulates the critical role of policy in our fight against asbestos-related diseases.

On top of building a community for those affected by asbestos, ADAO has also built an incredible network of organizations that are working to better the lives of everyday people like you. It is because of these organizations that we have been able to challenge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), set new legal precedents around asbestos regulations, and raise awareness around the globe about the dangers of asbestos. In that light, as we reflect on the triumph of the introduction of the 19th National Asbestos Awareness Week Senate Resolution, we acknowledge and thank our esteemed allies: AFL-CIO, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Federation of Teachers, American Public Health Association, Asbestos Victims Support Group Forum UK, British Occupational Hygiene Society, Center for Environmental Health, Collegium Ramazzini, Environmental Information Association, Environmental Working Group, Hazards Magazine, Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, International Association of Firefighters, Johnny O Perea Foundation for Asbestos Education & Relief (2005-2016), Kids In Danger, London Asbestos Support Awareness Group, Mesothelioma Hope, National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), OSH Africa, SOS AMIANTO – Portuguese Association Against Asbestos, and Toxic-Free Future.

Their invaluable support has been a cornerstone in propelling forward our initiatives for asbestos awareness and prevention. Through partnership, we not only amplify our message but also cement our resolve to eliminate the threat of asbestos exposure. Together, we are setting the stage for justice and cultivating a safer future devoid of asbestos risks.

While today we are focused on prevention and justice, please read “Asbestos -Related Issues Impacting Bangladesh Shipbreaking Laborers” by Martin Ditkof, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and listen to the Administrative Law Review’s: A Hard Look: “The Forgotten Toxin: The Fight to Finally Ban Asbestos” by Alexander Naum (2023).

As we continue our journey, we highlight the video “Асбест: убийца, которого вы не видите” (Asbestos: The Killer You Can’t See), and our press release, ОРГАНИЗАЦИЯ ПО ИНФОРМИРОВАНИЮ О ЗАБОЛЕВАНИЯХ, ВЫЗЫВАЕМЫХ АСБЕСТОМ, ПРОВОДИТ 20-Ю ЕЖЕГОДНУЮ «ВСЕМИРНУЮ НЕДЕЛЮ ОСВЕДОМЛЕННОСТИ ОБ АСБЕСТЕ» С 1 ПО 7 АПРЕЛЯ 2024 ГОДА, in Russian, further expanding our global outreach.

Looking ahead to Day Five, we shift our focus to “Global Action to Ban Asbestos in the USA and Around the World.” We will delve into the story of Simon Pickvance with “The man who exposed how work can kill,” and feature the PSA “Asbestos: The Killer You Can’t See,” now available in Portuguese. Join us as we spotlight individuals and movements making a difference in the worldwide campaign against asbestos.

Thank you to the many who have supported the 20th Global Asbestos Awareness Week and the 19th National Asbestos Awareness Week Resolution.