Posted on March 28, 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.
Welcome to the 20th Annual Global Asbestos Awareness Week, a pivotal moment in our ongoing mission to spread awareness, advocate for prevention, and support those affected by asbestos-related diseases. Today marks the beginning of a week-long campaign that transcends borders, uniting us under one banner: “Asbestos: One Word. One Week. One World.”
In conjunction with this significant event, we are proud to announce the launch of the Press Release: ADAO Launches 20th Annual “Global Asbestos Awareness Week” April 1-7, 2024. Additionally, we are thrilled to feature the impactful 30-Second PSA Video: “Asbestos: The Killer You Can’t See,” designed to further educate and inform individuals about the dangers of asbestos exposure.
Our primary focus during both #2024GAAW and all yearlong is clear: prevention. Asbestos is not just a hazard; it is a carcinogen, and there is no safe level of exposure. Throughout this week, we are dedicated to bringing together our global community in a unified effort to combat the continued use and import of asbestos fibers. Our goal is ambitious yet essential: to end all asbestos-related diseases and exposure.
On Day One, we shine a spotlight on the story of my late husband, Alan Reinstein, whose determination to fight mesothelioma epitomizes the resilience of those affected by asbestos-related illnesses. His words, “I’ll do anything to fight mesothelioma to have more time with my family, anything,” echo the sentiments of many facing this relentless disease.
As we embark on this journey together, ADAO is honored to partner with advocates from around the world. The support of organizations like the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) strengthens our collective voice.
In addition to educational materials and informative videos, we are honored to share insights from leaders who champion our shared cause. Patrick Morrison, Assistant to the General President for Occupational Health, Safety, and Medicine at the International Association of Fire Fighters, underscores the significance of the recent Senate Resolutions: “The Senate Resolutions are a huge win and increase awareness around the health risks associated with asbestos. This will benefit firefighters greatly as they face a 2x greater risk of developing mesothelioma than the general population.”
As we navigate this week of advocacy and education, we invite you to join the online conversation by using the hashtag #2024GAAW. Together, let’s make our voices heard, raise awareness, and pave the way towards a world free from the scourge of asbestos.
Check back tomorrow, Day Two, for the World Health Organization Asbestos-Related Disease Fact Sheet, Julie’s story “The Power of Public Health Advocacy: A Patient’s Perspective,” and don’t miss the Press Release: ADAO Launches 20th Annual “Global Asbestos Awareness Week” April 1-7, 2024, and the 30-Second PSA Video: “Asbestos: The Killer You Can’t See,” both translated into Hindi.
Stay tuned for a week filled with inspiration, empowerment, and progress. Together, we make change happen.
Thank you to our Day One 2024 Platinum Sponsor: Simmons Hanly Conroy LLP