Posted on April 10, 2026

U.S. Senate National Asbestos Awareness Week Resolution (S.Res. 666): Fifteen Asbestos Facts Driving Prevention, Public Health Protection, and Continued Action

Reinforcing the national effort to advance prevention, protect public health, and move the mission forward

As Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW) continues throughout April, we are building on this momentum by reinforcing the facts that drive prevention forward. The unanimous passage of Senate Resolution 666 designates the first week of April as National Asbestos Awareness Week and serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing risks of asbestos exposure.

In alignment with this resolution, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) has also sent a formal letter to the U.S. Surgeon General, calling for renewed public education and stronger warnings about the dangers of asbestos exposure to help protect public health.

This bipartisan resolution underscores a clear message: asbestos remains a serious public health issue, and awareness is essential to prevention.

Key Facts from Senate Resolution 666

  • Dangerous asbestos fibers are invisible and cannot be smelled or tasted.
  • Inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers can cause significant damage.
  • Asbestos exposure can cause cancer, including mesothelioma and asbestosis, as well as other health problems.
  • Symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may take 10 to 50 years to appear.
  • The projected life expectancy for individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma is between 6 and 24 months.
  • There is no cure for asbestos-related diseases, and limited knowledge exists regarding late-stage treatment.
  • Early detection may expand treatment options and improve patient prognosis.
  • Despite reduced use, asbestos is still consumed in the United States in certain products.
  • Thousands of Americans have died from asbestos-related diseases, with thousands more deaths occurring annually.
  • Prevention and safety measures have reduced disease incidence and can further reduce risk.
  • Many U.S. workers continue to face occupational exposure, contributing to occupational cancer.
  • A significant percentage of victims were exposed on naval ships and in shipyards.
  • Asbestos was widely used in buildings and public facilities constructed before 1975.
  • Residents of Libby, Montana experience higher rates of asbestos-related diseases.
  • Continued designation of National Asbestos Awareness Week raises awareness of disease prevalence and exposure risks.
  • Designates the first week of April as National Asbestos Awareness Week.
  • Urges the Surgeon General to warn and educate the public about asbestos exposure risks.
  • Requests that a copy of the resolution be transmitted to the Office of the Surgeon General.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Members of Congress whose leadership made Senate Resolution 666 possible. The resolution was introduced and passed by Senators Jeff Merkley and Steve Daines, and co-sponsored by Senators Dick Durbin, Edward J. Markey, Alex Padilla, and Cory Booker, whose bipartisan commitment continues to advance awareness and prevention efforts. Their collective efforts reflect the power of bipartisan action to address ongoing public health risks and protect communities across the nation.

We also recognize and extend our sincere thanks to our Partners for Prevention: public health, labor, and advocacy organizations, including the British Occupational Hygiene Society and the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, for their continued commitment, which plays a vital role in strengthening our work, expanding awareness, advancing education, and driving meaningful, lasting change.

As we continue GAAW throughout April, the message remains urgent and clear:

Asbestos exposure is preventable.
The diseases it causes are not.

Every conversation, every shared resource, and every informed decision brings us closer to a future free from asbestos-related diseases.

When you hear asbestos, think prevention and act.

Linda