Asbestos can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other serious diseases, often decades after exposure occurs. More than 1.3 million U.S. workers still face asbestos exposure risks today, especially those in construction, maintenance, and industrial jobs.

Both federal and state regulations require workplaces to measure the amount of asbestos present and keep employees safe. Unfortunately, some employers don’t always follow these safety guidelines, putting workers at risk of serious health consequences.

Learn about OSHA’s asbestos standards, your rights as a worker, and how Mesothelioma Hope can help if you’ve been diagnosed with an illness from occupational asbestos exposure.

What Are the OSHA Rules Concerning Asbestos?

OSHA has several sets of standards to protect workers from asbestos exposure, which could still occur today in high-risk workplaces like construction sites, auto repair shops, and shipyards.

OSHA’s worksite protections for asbestos include:

• Assessment and monitoring: Workplaces must determine if any of their employees’ job duties will cause asbestos fibers to become airborne. If so, the employer must perform routine monitoring to ensure exposure stays within the legal limit.
• Exposure limits: OSHA’s permissible exposure limit for asbestos is no more than an average of 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter over an 8-hour period. The excursion limit (EL) is less than 1 asbestos fiber per cubic centimeter over a 30-minute period.
• Hazard communication and personal protective equipment: Employers must clearly warn employees when asbestos is present and provide protective equipment. Respirators must be fit-tested, and simple dust masks aren’t approved for asbestos protection.
• Recordkeeping: Employers must keep copies of all tests documenting levels of asbestos and surveys tracking workers’ medical conditions possibly linked to their occupation for at least 30 years.
• Separate and safe break areas: Job sites that require work with asbestos must provide a break area that is separate from the work area and hygiene stations to reduce the risk of contamination.

These standards protect workers in all 50 states. Some states have their own OSHA-approved state plans, which may include more specific regulations than federal OSHA rules. Check with your local OSHA office for the asbestos regulations in your area.

Keep in mind, however, that there is no safe level of exposure to asbestos, meaning even one fiber can cause damage to the body’s sensitive tissues.

Download our Free Asbestos Products Guide to learn more about the health hazards of asbestos and what you can do if you or a loved one was exposed.

What Are My Rights as a Worker?

Under OSHA regulations, you have the right to a safe workplace that doesn’t put you at risk of serious injury or illness. This includes protection from asbestos and other toxic materials.

You also have the right to:

• Access records of hazard measurements, work-related illnesses, and injuries
• File a confidential complaint with OSHA and request a workplace inspection for safety hazards without fear of retaliation
• Obtain regular training and information about workplace hazards and ways to prevent dangerous exposures
• Receive proper safety gear and personal protective equipment (PPE)

If you’re concerned about your health and safety on the job or that your employer isn’t following OSHA asbestos standards, consider reporting it.

How Do I Complain About Asbestos to OSHA?

To file a complaint with OSHA about health-related concerns or an unsafe workplace, you should contact your local office as soon as possible.

You can file a complaint by:

• Calling your local OSHA office
• Completing an online complaint form on the OSHA website
• Sending a completed OSHA complaint form via email, fax, or U.S. mail
• Visiting your local OSHA office in person

Reporting potential asbestos hazards helps protect not only you but also your family, since asbestos fibers can cling to clothing or equipment and expose loved ones through secondhand contact.

Coming forward can feel stressful, especially if you fear retaliation at work. However, OSHA will keep your identity confidential if you ask, and your employer is not allowed to punish you for reporting unsafe working conditions.

How We Can Help Workers Diagnosed With Mesothelioma

For decades, asbestos product manufacturers hid the dangers of asbestos, exposing millions of dedicated workers to this devastating cancer-causing substance. We’ve seen firsthand how thousands of families have been hurt by mesothelioma through no fault of their own.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma from working with or around asbestos, you don’t have to walk this path alone.

Mesothelioma Hope’s nurses and Patient Advocates can help you:

• Understand your diagnosis and treatment options
• Connect with top mesothelioma specialists and cancer centers
• Access financial assistance from legal claims and VA benefits
• Find emotional and practical support services for you and your family

Get the compassionate support you deserve by calling (866) 608-8933 or filling out our contact form today.

The post What Do I Do If My Employer Isn’t Following OSHA Asbestos Regulations? appeared first on MesotheliomaHope.com.

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by asbestos, which was used heavily in many industries from the 1930s through the 1980s. Sadly, because mesothelioma is so rare, some people may not know about it or how devastating it can be to patients and their families.

Whether you connect with loved ones in person or participate in online fundraisers, there are many ways to support Mesothelioma Awareness Day 2025.

Participate in Special Events

Each September, various organizations host activities and events to help raise awareness about this illness and encourage donations that will be allocated toward finding a cure.

You can take part by joining these initiatives: 

• #MoreThanMeso Campaign: Join the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation’s movement to challenge stereotypes and highlight the personal stories behind this disease.
• Paint the World in Mesothelioma Blue: One creative way to celebrate with friends and family is to dress up in your most comfortable blue outfit, take some fun photos, and post them online with the hashtag #curemeso.
• Light the World Blue: Since 2020, oncology company Novocure has called on landmarks nationwide to light their facilities blue on September 26. Find a location near you to share photos, or call on your city or organization to join.
• Miles for Meso: The Miles for Meso 5K Race & 3K Fun Run/Walk is hosted each September with proceeds benefiting the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO). You can cheer on the racers in person if you’re near Alton, Illinois, or by using #MilesForMeso on social media.

A full list of events scheduled this year can be found on the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation website. You can also launch your own fundraiser for trusted mesothelioma research organizations.

Did you know asbestos is still found in older homes and buildings today? Check out our Free Asbestos Guide to learn more about the risks and how to stay safe.

Help Mesothelioma Organizations

Notable groups like the Meso Foundation and the ADAO are celebrating National Mesothelioma Awareness Day this year. These nonprofit organizations were founded by medical experts and loved ones of those with mesothelioma to raise funds for cancer research.

You can help these groups by:

• Following them on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and Instagram
• Making an online donation (both the Meso Foundation and ADAO accept donations)
• Spreading the word about these organizations and their missions

Connecting with these groups online can help them grow their donation base and promote awareness of mesothelioma.

Visit Loved Ones With Mesothelioma

This special day is a great reminder to visit with friends or family members who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. Spending time with them is one way to show that you are here to support them.

If your loved ones live far away or are receiving mesothelioma treatment in a hospital, you can call them or use a video conferencing app like FaceTime, Skype, or Zoom. This is a great way to stay connected and let them know how much you care about them.

Spread Awareness and Push for an Asbestos Ban

Since mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure, the most effective prevention is eliminating its use entirely. Despite almost 70 countries already banning asbestos, the U.S. has yet to follow suit.

In September 2025, lawmakers reintroduced the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act. This bipartisan bill would finally ban the use and importation of all asbestos fibers, not just the chrysotile type covered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s March 2024 rule.

“We have known for decades that asbestos causes suffering, disease, and death. It is long past time to end the importation and use of all asbestos in the United States and put a stop to the preventable tragedies that have claimed far too many American lives.”

You can join the efforts for an asbestos-free future by sending letters to your government representatives and asking them to support the ARBAN Act. Additionally, you can share facts about asbestos and mesothelioma on social media and encourage your network to join the fight.

Share Your Story

Depending on your comfort level, opening up about your own experiences with mesothelioma can help encourage and inspire others, especially if they are new to this community and are seeking a safe and welcoming environment.

You can share your stories on National Mesothelioma Awareness Day with us by contacting Mesothelioma Hope.

Another option is to connect with a local news outlet and see if it can do a story about living with mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Hope: Here for Everyone Impacted by Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma Awareness Day 2025 will have a positive impact on countless individuals and families who have been affected by this devastating disease. Your effort can make a difference and help drive donations and awareness worldwide.

Mesothelioma Hope will be participating alongside you, with many of our team members joining the Miles for Meso race and sharing highlights on social media.

We are dedicated to supporting mesothelioma patients and their families by helping them find the community and resources they need.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with this cancer, get our Free Mesothelioma Guide now to find information on treatments and financial compensation to cover expenses.

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The 20th Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference, hosted by the Asbestos Disease and Awareness Organization (ADAO), was held this year on September 13 in New York City. During the event, Mesothelioma Hope’s founder, Chris Carberg, participated in a panel discussion on digital tools and strategies for reducing asbestos exposure.

Other attendees and speakers included Dr. Raja Flores, Dr. Andrea Wolf, ADAO president Linda Reinstein, Simmons Hanly Conroy partner Perry Browder, New York City Council Member Gale Brewer, and many more. Session topics included a retrospective timeline of asbestos-related diseases in the U.S., new methods for diagnosis and treatment, and how to limit asbestos exposure.

Below are five key takeaways from this year’s conference.

1. Tech and AI Are Powerful Tools for Awareness

Chris Carberg and Linda Reinstein presented a session titled, “Prevention is the cure — strategies for exposure reduction.” The presentation highlighted insights from Chris’s background in marketing, technology, and creativity, coupled with Linda’s deep experience in and passion for reducing asbestos harm.

“For years now, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Linda Reinstein and ADAO, which has taught me something very clear: Prevention is greater than cure.”

They emphasized how artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool in the effort to prevent and raise awareness about asbestos exposure. Predictive models can help identify at-risk groups earlier, allowing for targeted technology and messaging to accelerate the time to diagnosis and treatment.

Earlier this year, Linda launched a chatbot called The Source, which compiles 20 years’ worth of ADAO content into a dedicated knowledge base. This new tool makes it easier than ever to search, share, and expand access to life-saving information.

Another major tech development in this fight is the Asbestos Action Navigator, a digital tool that guides people down three clear paths: prevention, exposure, and care. The customizable web-based product helps build on awareness by giving people actionable steps to take to protect themselves and their families after exposure.

2. Immunotherapy Continues to Show Significant Promise

On the treatment front, one of the biggest takeaways from the conference was the ongoing research coming out about the effectiveness and promise of immunotherapy. Dr. Jorge Gomez, mesothelioma specialist at Mount Sinai Hospital, noted how patients have seen significant gains in survival since the 2000s — thanks in large part to new treatments like immunotherapy. He said the plateau is extending and is much higher than it’s been in the past.

Dr. Andrea Wolf, also of Mount Sinai Hospital, presented on the importance of tailoring pleural mesothelioma treatment to each patient and individualizing treatment plans with several possible therapies. She shared the promise of poly-ICLC, an immune stimulant that mimics a viral infection to trigger an immune response and therefore strengthen the immune system.

During an immunology presentation, specialists shared a unique analogy, comparing mesothelioma to a cobra. These vicious snakes are hard to kill because they’re fast and smart, and can predict and counter a predator’s movements in real time. It sounds counterintuitive, but they argued that the best way to kill a snake is with ants, which climb on the snake and attack it little by little. In the same way, immunotherapy helps destroy cancer one cell at a time.

3. Tumor Treatment Can Help Manage Disease

Some of the challenges of mesothelioma have to do with how it forms and how quickly it advances. Conference presenters shared National Cancer Institute (NCI) SEER data on the survival rates of pleural mesothelioma based on how far the disease has spread — and that localized cancer (wherein the tumors are contained to a specific part of the body) results in almost 1 in 4 patients living for 5 years or more. This highlights the importance of identifying mesothelioma in early stages and keeping the cancer contained as much as possible.

Additionally, Dr. Gomez shared results from a phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the effectiveness of Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) in combination with chemotherapy for inoperable pleural mesothelioma. The trial found a median overall survival of 18.2 months with this treatment, which involves the use of alternating electrical fields to keep tumor cells from dividing and multiplying.

4. Asbestos Might Cause More Lung Cancer Than We Think

Panelists shared data on the number of deaths in the U.S. each year from asbestos-caused cancer, including (all numbers approximate):

• Lung cancer: 34,000
• Mesothelioma: 3,000
• Ovarian cancer: 800
• Laryngeal cancer: 500
• Asbestosis: 700

Although mesothelioma is directly caused by asbestos exposure, as many as 28% of all lung cancer deaths may also be related to asbestos (34,000 out of 120,000 total lung cancer deaths every year).

This highlights how dangerous asbestos still is and the need for ongoing advocacy and support for victims.

5. Post 9/11, Prevention Is More Critical Than Ever

It wasn’t a coincidence that the conference took place just days after the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the U.S. In addition to the devastation that occurred that day, the ongoing tragedy includes first responders’ decades-later diagnoses of debilitating diseases, including asbestos-caused cancers. On September 12, conference-goers attended a vigil at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, a sobering reminder of the pain and tragedy of that event.

Dr. David Prezant, Chief Medical Officer of the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY), presented a session on 9/11 firefighter exposure reduction strategies and screening insights. Other presentations focused on eliminating worldwide asbestos hazards, the toxic danger of wildfires in Los Angeles and beyond, and how to reduce asbestos exposure in post-war recovery and reconstruction.

Although progress has been made toward banning new asbestos use — thanks in large part to ADAO founder Linda Reinstein’s tireless advocacy efforts — much of the mineral remains in older buildings and still poses a threat to the health and safety of people across the country.

But one bright spot in the fight emerged last week: the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act of 2025 was reintroduced in Congress. Although the bill has not yet passed, it presents an opportunity to completely ban asbestos, close loopholes left by the EPA’s 2024 rule, and provide long-term certainty in the ongoing fight against this substance.

Finding Hope in Research and Community

The 2025 ADAO conference was an inspiring and hopeful experience, providing an opportunity to connect with passionate professionals from multiple disciplines across the country.

The conference bolstered ADAO’s mission to prevent asbestos exposure, eliminate asbestos-related diseases, and protect the civil rights of asbestos victims through global education, advocacy, and community initiatives.

Download our Free Asbestos Products Guide to learn more about how exposure happens and what you can do to keep your family safe.

The post 5 Key Takeaways From the 2025 Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference appeared first on MesotheliomaHope.com.

Asbestos fibers are usually too small to be seen by the naked eye, which can make it impossible to tell if you’re breathing them in. Additionally, symptoms of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases can take 10-50 years to show up.

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be eligible for financial compensation, even if you’re not sure about the details of your asbestos exposure.

Below, learn how you might have been exposed and what you can do to seek financial assistance after a mesothelioma diagnosis.

High-Risk Asbestos Occupations

People working in certain jobs prior to the early 1980s were at a very high risk of asbestos exposure. This is because many industries relied on asbestos-containing materials, causing workers to be exposed daily.

Jobs with a high risk of occupational asbestos exposure include:

• Aircraft maintenance
• Auto repair
• Boiler work
• Construction
• Electrical work
• Firefighting
• Mining
• Plumbing
• And more

“I worked 40 years in the construction business. I was exposed to asbestos through sheetrock, the mud, through gaskets in piping, through respirators, the cartridges, and the filters, all through my career.”

Many of these workers have gone on to develop mesothelioma or other serious health issues today. This is because mesothelioma has a long latency period, appearing decades after initial exposure.

Get our Asbestos Products Guide to learn how you or someone you love may have been exposed to asbestos on the job.

Secondary Asbestos Exposure From Family Members

Workers in high-risk industries may have encountered so much asbestos dust that it clung to their clothing, hair, and shoes. When they came home, they unintentionally exposed their families. This is known as secondhand asbestos exposure, and it can cause mesothelioma.

For example, Julie Gundlach’s father worked as an electrician and brought asbestos home on his work clothes every night, unaware of the dangers. A year after his death from asbestos lung cancer, she was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma.

“When my mother washed his clothes in the laundry room that doubled as my playroom and shook out the dust, she had no idea she was spreading asbestos fibers throughout our house.”

Military Service and Asbestos Exposure Risks

If you served in the military decades ago, it’s likely you were exposed to asbestos. Every branch of the U.S. military used asbestos between the 1930s and early 1980s.

Asbestos helped make building materials and other products heat-resistant and durable. These qualities were necessary in nearly all military assets, including aircraft, bases, and transport vehicles.

U.S. Navy ships, in particular, contained tons of asbestos-containing materials in engine rooms, boiler rooms, and other high-temperature areas. Today, veterans with mesothelioma make up 33% of all patients as a result of this extensive use of asbestos.

Asbestos Exposure From Talcum Powder and Other Products

Across the country, people are being diagnosed with mesothelioma, ovarian cancer, and other serious illnesses after using talcum powder decades ago.

Talc and asbestos are often found near each other in rock deposits. Companies like Johnson & Johnson knew of the risks of asbestos contamination in their products but failed to warn consumers, according to lawsuits.

Asbestos was used in consumer products like:

• A/C systems
• Brakes
• Cigarettes
• Insulation
• Makeup
• Paint
• Tile
• Toothpaste

Exposure to asbestos in these consumer products could put you or someone you love at risk of mesothelioma later in life.

Learn more about the risks of asbestos and what you can do to keep you and your loved ones safe in our Free Asbestos Products Guide.

Download Asbestos Products GuideFree 2026 Asbestos Guide

• Asbestos safety information
• Products containing asbestos
• Common exposure risks

Get Your Free Guide

Asbestos Exposure From Older Buildings

Before the dangers of asbestos were widely understood, construction materials like insulation, flooring and ceiling tiles, and cement often contained asbestos. Asbestos was inexpensive and made products sturdy and fireproof.

If your home or workplace was built before the 1980s, it likely contains asbestos materials. Most of the time, these products are considered safe if undamaged and left undisturbed.

Older buildings that may still contain asbestos include:

• Commercial businesses and shops
• Homes
• Office buildings
• Schools
• Warehouses

If you believe your home or a building you work at contains asbestos-containing materials, the safest thing to do is leave them alone. Do not try to renovate your home for asbestos on your own. Consult a licensed professional who can recommend next steps to keep everyone safe.

4 Tips on What to Do If Exposed to Asbestos

There’s no way to lower the risk of mesothelioma after asbestos exposure. That said, if you’re worried about mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos, there are a few steps you can take.

Here are 4 things you can do after possible exposure to asbestos:

1. Talk to your doctor about your exposure history: This can help them keep mesothelioma in mind if you develop potential symptoms.
2. Get routine cancer screenings: The sooner you get a mesothelioma diagnosis, the sooner you can start treatment to help you live longer. You may want to get precautionary screenings even if you feel fine.
3. Take protective measures to reduce exposure: If you have asbestos in your home, hire an abatement professional to safely remove it. If you work in a high-risk occupation, follow all safety protocols, such as wearing protective equipment.
4. Collect proof of asbestos exposure: Gather any employment or military service records, medical documents, and other information related to your exposure. With an attorney’s help, these documents can strengthen your asbestos case and show that you deserve compensation from the manufacturers of asbestos products.

When it comes to mesothelioma, asbestos is the only known cause. So, if you’ve been diagnosed, you were exposed — and experienced mesothelioma attorneys can help determine how.

If there’s no asbestos, there’s no mesothelioma, it’s that simple. If you have mesothelioma, and you say, ‘Well, I’ve never been exposed to asbestos,’ you were exposed to it. You just don’t know where and you don’t know when.”

How We Can Help Asbestos Victims

If you were exposed to asbestos decades ago, you likely didn’t know that it could cause you to develop mesothelioma later in life. Mesothelioma Hope can help you and your family members if you’re worried about serious illnesses related to asbestos exposure.

Work with our team to:

• Determine when, where, and how you were exposed
• Find top doctors treating mesothelioma
• Pursue compensation for mesothelioma with legal help
• Receive the support you need on this cancer journey

Get our Free Asbestos Guide now to learn more about high-risk materials or call (866) 608-8933 for more information on treatments and financial payouts for mesothelioma.

The post How Do You Know If You Were Exposed to Asbestos? appeared first on MesotheliomaHope.com.

But if your home was built before the early 1990s, there’s a hidden danger that can turn a simple renovation into a lifelong health risk: asbestos exposure.

When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they can release microscopic fibers into the air. These fibers are easily breathed in or swallowed, and over time, they can cause serious diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

“He loved home remodeling. We had a very old house in St. Louis City, and we tore out the bathroom. At the time, we didn’t know, but that was more exposure to asbestos.”

Why Is Asbestos Still Found in Homes?

Asbestos was once considered a miracle material. It was durable, fire-resistant, and inexpensive, making it a go-to choice for insulation, siding, floor tiles, roofing, and other parts of a home. Builders used asbestos products in houses across the United States for decades without knowing the long-term health risks.

Federal regulations in the late 1970s and 1980s sharply restricted asbestos use, but it’s never been fully banned in the United States. That means millions of older homes still contain asbestos-containing products.

These materials usually aren’t dangerous if left untouched. The real danger comes when they’re cut, drilled, sanded, or broken during renovation work. This releases fibers into the air, where you could breathe them in. If your house was built before 1990, you should always assume asbestos could be somewhere inside and treat any renovations with caution.

Download Mesothelioma Hope’s Free Asbestos Guide to learn how to identify potential hazards and take the right precautions before you begin a home improvement project.

Asbestos in Home Renovation: Common Sources of Exposure

In older houses, asbestos can turn up in places you might not expect. It wasn’t just used in one or two products — it was added to all kinds of materials to make them stronger and fireproof. That’s why disturbing anything in an older building can be dangerous without professional help.

Asbestos may be found in:

• Cement sheeting (fibro board) in walls, eaves, and fencing
• Drywall and joint compound
• Insulation around pipes, ducts, and attics
• Roofing shingles and siding
• Textured paints and popcorn ceilings
• Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives

Even if these materials look solid, moving or breaking them can release harmful fibers into the air. Before you start tearing anything out, hire a licensed professional to perform pre-renovation asbestos surveys. They can confirm whether it’s safe to proceed with a demolition or remodel.

The Third Wave of Asbestos Victims

Asbestos-related diseases have emerged in three major waves:

1. First wave – Miners and factory workers handling raw asbestos
2. Second wave – Tradespeople installing or repairing asbestos products
3. Third wave – Homeowners and renovators disturbing asbestos during remodeling

Research shows that more than 60% of DIY renovators working on older homes have been exposed to asbestos. When someone’s working on a remodel, asbestos fibers can stick to their clothes, hair, or tools. These fibers can become airborne and put spouses and children at risk of secondhand asbestos exposure.

“When I was little, my parents lived in a double, and it was an old house. My dad did a lot of the work. He took the old tile off the walls. Any repair work, any remodeling, he did.”

Unlike the first two waves, however, we now understand how harmful asbestos is, which means exposure is preventable with the proper precautions.

Tips for Safe Asbestos Renovations in 2025

If you plan to renovate an older home, asbestos safety should be part of your project from the start.

 Keep these 5 tips in mind:

1. Assume asbestos is present in homes built before 1990.
2. Schedule an asbestos renovation survey with a licensed inspector.
3. Stop work immediately if suspicious materials are found.
4. Budget for asbestos testing and removal.
5. Keep family members and pets away from renovation areas until cleared.

Taking a few extra steps now can protect your health and your family’s for decades to come.

Get Help Determining Your Asbestos Renovation Risk

If you have an older home, it’s important to know your asbestos exposure risks, especially if you’re planning a renovation. Our team is here to help you understand where asbestos might be hiding, what that means for your health, and the best way to move forward.

Mesothelioma Hope can:

• Identify common areas in your home where asbestos might be found
• Explain your personal risk for mesothelioma
• Provide information about testing and inspection options before you start a project
• Connect you with medical and legal resources if you’ve already been harmed

Call us at (866) 608-8933 or download our Free Asbestos Guide to get started.

The post DIY Asbestos Exposure: Home Renovation Risks appeared first on MesotheliomaHope.com.

If you were exposed to asbestos, talk with your doctor about getting screened for mesothelioma and other related illnesses — even if you aren’t experiencing any symptoms yet.

What Are the Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure?

Asbestos is a known human carcinogen with no safe level of exposure, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

While asbestos exposure doesn’t cause symptoms immediately, it can lead to life-threatening illnesses decades later. This includes mesothelioma, a rare cancer that forms in the lining of the lungs or abdomen.

Other asbestos-related diseases include:

• Asbestosis
• Lung cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Pleural plaques

The symptoms of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases — such as chest pain, cough, fluid buildup, and difficulty breathing — are often mild at first. Because of this, they may be dismissed as something less serious.

You should see a doctor if you were ever exposed to asbestos and are now feeling sick. The earlier you are diagnosed, the more treatment options you’ll have to fight your illness.

Get our Free Asbestos Products Guide to learn about materials that contained asbestos and whether you might have been exposed.

Can Asbestos Cause Immediate Symptoms?

Asbestos-related diseases have a long latency period (time between exposure and symptoms). Most patients don’t experience any symptoms until 10 to 50 years after exposure.

After breathing in or swallowing asbestos, the fibers gradually irritate healthy tissues. Over time, long-term inflammation causes cancer tumors to form, which is when symptoms first start to appear.

Early symptoms of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Hoarseness
• Night sweats
• Pain in the abdomen, back, or chest
• Peritoneal effusion (fluid buildup in abdominal lining)
• Persistent and sometimes bloody cough
• Pleural effusion (fluid buildup in lung lining)
• Shortness of breath
• Weight loss

However, because of the long latency period, many patients may dismiss these symptoms as more common and less serious health problems.

When Alan Bonnin developed a cough, he thought it was a symptom of postnasal drip. But after experiencing pleural effusions that collapsed his lung, he agreed to more testing, which led to a shocking mesothelioma diagnosis.

“I never thought I would be affected by something like mesothelioma. It never occurred to me that I even was exposed, until I was diagnosed.”

Who Is at Risk for Diseases Caused by Asbestos Exposure?

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is in danger of getting sick later in life. People who worked with asbestos-containing materials in industries like construction and shipbuilding are at the highest risk.

Roughly 27 million people were exposed to asbestos from 1940 to 1979 — and manufacturers of asbestos-containing products hid the health risks during this time.

Some high-risk occupations include:

• Auto and aircraft repair
• Construction and carpentry
• Demolition
• Firefighting
• Insulation
• Manufacturing
• Mining and milling
• Shipbuilding

Additionally, U.S. veterans are at high risk of asbestos diseases since every branch of the military used this material in ships, bases, and other assets until the early 1980s.

Family members of workers were also in danger of secondary asbestos exposure. Brenda Ward developed mesothelioma after being exposed through her father and ex-husband, both of whom worked with products that contained asbestos.

“My dad was a subcontractor, and he used to take us with him on his job sites. My ex-husband used to work on cars. He changed brakes and motor oil.”

How Are Symptoms of Asbestos-Related Diseases Diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose symptoms of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases using a series of tests.

Mesothelioma should be diagnosed by a specialist. Seeing a mesothelioma specialist early on can help prevent a misdiagnosis.

“It’s such a rare cancer that the majority of patients end up getting misdiagnosed or treated for a number of other things before it gets figured out.”

Mesothelioma specialists use imaging scans like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to assess any signs of cancer in the body, and then perform a biopsy (removal of tissue sample) to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis.

Use our Free Doctor Match for help connecting with mesothelioma specialists near you.

Get Matched With a Mesothelioma Doctor

• Find top specialists near you
• Seek compensation for travel & care
• Get medical guidance

Get Matched Now

Get Help Diagnosing Asbestos Exposure Symptoms

If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos in the past and are now feeling ill, see a specialist promptly.

Experienced mesothelioma doctors can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatments.

At Mesothelioma Hope, our Patient Advocates can help you:

• Connect with nearby mesothelioma specialists
• Explore your treatment options
• Pursue compensation to cover medical expenses

Call us at (866) 608-8933 now or use our Free Doctor Match to get started and stay on top of your health.

The post How Long After Asbestos Exposure Do Symptoms Appear? appeared first on MesotheliomaHope.com.

In 2003, Linda Reinstein’s husband, Alan, was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the lung lining caused by asbestos exposure.

As she coped with the grief of her husband’s diagnosis, Linda co-founded the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO). Her mission was to spare other families the pain of this avoidable yet devastating illness by urging policymakers to ban asbestos in all its uses.

“Asbestos isn’t a problem of the past. It’s a danger hiding in homes, schools, and workplaces today. And until it’s fully banned, I will keep fighting.”

Now, over 20 years later, Linda continues to fight on behalf of her husband, who passed away in 2006, and the millions of people affected by the dangerous carcinogen asbestos.

As part of Global Asbestos Awareness Week, we asked Linda questions about navigating the grief of losing her husband to mesothelioma and starting the largest asbestos advocacy organization in the U.S.

What was your reaction to Alan being diagnosed with mesothelioma?

After enduring 9 months of symptoms and multiple visits to doctors, Alan was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma in 2003. I didn’t know anything about the disease, not even how to pronounce it. The learning curve for mesothelioma treatment and understanding your legal options was steep.

When the doctor told us what was going on, I was paralyzed with grief, fear, and disbelief. Our daughter Emily was only 10 — just a baby in our eyes. We were a typical American family — trusting that our government would protect our air, water, and soil from toxins — but I was wrong.

What treatment methods did he undergo? What were those like for him as a patient and you as a caregiver?

He underwent multiple surgeries and chemotherapy, including the radical extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), a surgical procedure that removed his left lung and lining around his heart and replaced his diaphragm. These were incredibly painful for both him and for Emily and me.

“Watching someone you love in pain is torture. That kind of grief never leaves you — it transforms you.”

While treatment gave us a few more years with him, mesothelioma is a cruel and deadly cancer. He died in 2006 with us by his side.

What’s a favorite memory about your late husband, Alan?

It’s impossible to choose a single favorite memory of someone you love and have built a life with.

But I will never forget the softness of his hand on my cheek or the gentleness of his voice, his profound wisdom, and the many adventures we shared, including marathons, skiing, and climbing Half Dome in Yosemite National Park.

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Linda Reinstein founded the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) after losing her husband to mesothelioma. Since that time, she and the ADAO have made great strides in helping others affected by mesothelioma and banning asbestos, the only known cause of the cancer. Visit https://www.mesotheliomahope.com/ or call (866) 608-8933 now to learn how we can help you or a loved one with mesothelioma. View Transcript.

Duration: 5 min 23 sec

I’m Linda Reinstein. I’m the co-founder and president of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, known as ADAO. We’re an independent nonprofit dedicated to preventing all asbestos-caused diseases. Alan was my soulmate and my forever one. We had been married for over 20 years, so when I heard a slight persistent cough, I knew something was very different. With a little bit of humor, I said, ‘Alan, you need to go in and get that checked out.’ He came home; he was checked out, but we didn’t have any answers. That was back in 2002. They thought maybe he had TB. Could he have AIDS? They went through a myriad of different tests. There was a pleural effusion on his left lung. The surgeon came out and said, ‘Are you alone?’ I knew enough to know that wasn’t a good sign. He said, ‘I think Alan might have mesothelioma.’ I’d never heard of it and couldn’t pronounce it. Still, using some humor, I guess it’s dark humor by now, I said, ‘But it’s a kind you can treat, right?’ He said, ‘I can treat it, but I can’t cure it,’ and with that, I realized that our lives were going to change. Alan was diagnosed; pathology confirmed mesothelioma. He elected to have an extrapleural pneumonectomy. They removed a left rib, resected and removed his lung. They stripped off his pericardium, the lining around his heart, and they surgically replaced his diaphragm. We called it the shark bite. He was sliced from left to right, all the way around. It was a devastating surgery. I think the anxiety from having your lung removed took Alan quite a while to even adapt. When the cancer came back on Alan’s right lung, it had been almost a three-year battle. He had chemotherapy, and the options were very limited. I’ll remember that moment like it was just yesterday. Emily was then 13, and Alan had actually been hospitalized with what they thought was aspiration pneumonia. Emily and I were heading in one rainy morning in the LA area. Emily, then 13, and I looked at Alan. He was a very different Alan. I tell the story because I want people to understand the devastation that the family and the patient have to endure. Alan had a demand mask on, covering his entire face. As we walked in, his eyes barely opened, but I could see that he was listening. Emily, at 13, tells her dad as we hold his hand, ‘Dad, you won. You’re a champ. You never gave up.’ I’m resting Alan’s fears and telling Alan that we’ll be okay. As I look to the right, the heart monitor begins to flatline. Nobody moved; they were stoic. That was the moment I knew Alan had died when the staff didn’t respond to the heart monitor. Every step that I had to learn, I learned the hard way. Saying goodbye to a father, a friend, a husband — it stinks, and it’s all preventable. I think that part of Alan’s treatment and ultimate death has fueled my fight for 20 years. I don’t want other people to have to go through what I have. I had it tough, and I’m not the only person that’s had it tough. We’ve been working for the last seven years on the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act. It’s named after my husband, but not for Alan; it’s for the hundreds of thousands of Alans. Anybody who has suffered or died from this disease needs to feel part of that bill. The bill would stop imports and use, which is the first step to mitigating this man-made disaster. MesoHero is just a great community event. I love Simmons Hanly Conroy; they are so genuine. After all of these years of working together and knowing the firm, I’ve developed some friendships that make it a really sweet trip out to Alton, Illinois. It’s mixed with old friends, new friends, and always a new discovery. I meet someone who usually teaches me something, and that’s an exciting part. So, MesoHero has been an amazing resource. For one, it raises awareness; you bring a community together, and we talk about our stories so they understand. They can connect the nearly invisible dust to the damages, the impact on our families. Two, we can take home facts and stats and share with others. ADAO’s mission has always been to use education, advocacy, and community to do our work. Three, the funds are remarkable. They help us to put on our annual conference, staff briefings in Washington, DC, and various other things that help us to continue our 20-year mission of preventing exposure to eliminate all asbestos diseases. I’m very honored to do this work for Alan and the hundreds of thousands of Alans. I hope everyone will join our campaign to ban asbestos now.

How did you deal with the grief of losing your husband?

People sometimes don’t know how to talk to you when you are grieving. They want to help, but they also want you to be okay within 6 to 12 months, and that’s just not going to happen.

What those who haven’t lost someone don’t understand is that it changes you forever. Cancer, suffering, and death are not something that you can ever “shake off” or move on from. The grief will be ever-present for the rest of your life, the strength of it coming and going in waves at certain times. When I first lost Alan, I was bewildered, angry, and depressed.

My daughter is the one thing that kept me focused, kept me present. Without her, I would have been lost. She and I changed together and came out the other side as different people.

Lastly, co-founding ADAO with Doug Larkin in 2004 gave my pain and grief an outlet. We are now people who are dedicated to making sure America bans asbestos so families don’t have to suffer like ours did. ADAO provides education and resources for families who are suffering and uses a dual-track method of legislation and regulation to fight for a world free of asbestos-caused diseases.

What guidance would you offer to someone newly diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness?

There are four things I tell people who learn they have an asbestos-caused illness:

1. Build your medical, financial, and legal plan and share it with your loved ones.
2. Surround yourself with family, friends, and medical experts.
3. Invest in your self-care. I’m excited to share news of my upcoming self-care guide.
4. Seek professional help as needed.

These are small steps you can take to begin to understand what you need to do.

Also, remember you are not alone. A caring community is available to asbestos victims, with many resources online and with your medical and legal team. Mesothelioma Hope has excellent free resources.

What do you wish everyone knew about asbestos?

I wish everyone recognized the deep and tragic impact asbestos continues to have on individuals and their families. Most people do not know that asbestos is still legal and lethal in America today.

Despite landmark steps being taken regarding asbestos imports and use in the 20 years since I started ADAO, more work needs to be done to fully safeguard Americans from this carcinogen.

“Asbestos doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care where you live or what you do for a living.”

It is critical to remind everyone that asbestos is a known carcinogen, and there is no safe level of exposure. While promising research continues, prevention remains the only cure.

Acknowledging the enduring threat of asbestos is crucial in advocating for change, which includes the need for comprehensive regulations and legislation to prevent exposure and safeguard health.

Reflecting on the past 21 years of Global Asbestos Awareness Week, what moments stand out?

Over the past two decades, Global Asbestos Awareness Week has impacted my life and the lives of so many. The shared stories of resilience and hope, alongside the concrete achievements of our advocacy efforts, hold a special place in my heart.

“I see survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, and even students stepping up with fierce determination and compassion. Every time someone shares their story or calls their senator, we chip away at the silence.”

Integrating art into our advocacy work has not only humanized the asbestos issue but also broadened our outreach, making the invisible horror of asbestos exposure visible to a broader audience.

Organizing annual conferences has been instrumental in uniting experts, victims, and policymakers from around the globe, fostering a robust platform for conversation and collaboration. These gatherings are not just meetings — they represent hope and progress while showcasing the power of unity and shared purpose.

Each step forward, no matter the size, brings us closer to a world without asbestos-related diseases, and every story of hope and legislative step forward echoes our mission.

What makes this year’s Global Asbestos Awareness Week especially meaningful to you?

Each year is deeply meaningful, but this is our 21st Global Asbestos Awareness Week, and that number carries weight.

It represents over two decades of relentless advocacy, personal stories, scientific collaboration, and global outreach.

What’s especially powerful this year is how we’ve integrated technology — launching our AI-powered chatbot and expanding multilingual education — so we can reach people faster and more effectively than ever before. It’s another step forward in saving lives.

How has your work evolved since the founding of ADAO?

When we started, ADAO was very small. Doug Larkin and I co-founded it, and of course, our families were right there with us. Slowly but surely, ADAO grew as more victims, families, and communities affected by asbestos joined us.

Thanks to volunteers, interns, supporters, donors, patients and their families, leadership, and our national spokesperson, Jordan Zevon, ADAO has continued to grow.

ADAO is now the largest independent asbestos victims’ organization in the United States. Our network includes over 50,000 individuals eager to live in a world without asbestos, and we hold several annual speaking engagements to educate people about asbestos exposure.

Some of our achievements include:

• Regularly speaking in front of Congress
• Challenging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in court to better report asbestos contamination
• Observing every April 1-7 as Global Asbestos Awareness Week
• Launching the annual International Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference, which welcomes world-renowned experts and asbestos victims to share the latest in disease prevention, global advocacy, and treatment for asbestos-caused diseases

Most importantly, ADAO has worked with others to draft a comprehensive bill called the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act to ban all asbestos fibers in all uses. The bill has the support of the House and Senate and is the most comprehensive bill put before Congress in over 30 years.

As we look forward, ADAO will continue to work toward preventing asbestos exposure and eliminating asbestos-caused illnesses by urging lawmakers to ban asbestos and supporting the community of individuals whose lives have been devastated.

Our goal is a world without asbestos and without asbestos-related diseases.

Is the EPA’s ban on chrysotile asbestos enough to protect people from asbestos?

The EPA’s decision to ban chrysotile asbestos, announced in March 2024, was an exciting landmark step forward, but it falls short of providing complete protection.

Addressing the full scope of the asbestos problem requires not just a ban on all types but also comprehensive strategies for the safe removal and disposal of existing asbestos-containing materials.

For complete safety, a total ban needs to be implemented through legislation like the ARBAN Act, and rigorous safety measures are necessary.

How can people help advocate for a global ban on asbestos?

Supporting a global ban on asbestos involves several key strategies:

• Educating others about the dangers of asbestos and correcting common misconceptions is fundamental.
• Engaging with lawmakers to advocate for bans and improved regulations is critical, as is using platforms like social media to raise awareness and call others to action.
• Collaborating with organizations like ADAO that are fighting for asbestos bans can amplify individual efforts.
• Sharing personal or loved ones’ stories impacted by asbestos puts a personal face on the issue, making it more relatable.

Together, these efforts can build a movement strong enough to effect change.

The best first step for Americans desiring to participate is to support the passage of the bipartisan Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act.

During Global Asbestos Awareness Week, what are you most hopeful for?

April 1 through April 7 symbolizes a time of unity, memory, and proactive steps toward ending asbestos use. It’s a moment to honor those lost, like Alan, and to advocate for a future free from asbestos-related suffering.

This year, I hope to see stronger global collaboration in preventing exposure and eliminating asbestos use worldwide, with more nations joining those that have enacted bans.

While promising research continues, prevention remains the only cure. I hope for advancements in medical treatments for asbestos-related conditions and, fundamentally, for policies that prevent exposure and preserve lives.

Mesothelioma Hope: Fighting Alongside Linda Reinstein

Linda’s work toward an asbestos-free future is beyond valuable. All of us at Mesothelioma Hope thank her for her dedication and vulnerability in sharing her story. Stories like hers inspire our team at Mesothelioma Hope to keep providing support and resources for victims and their families.

As Linda said, you are not alone. Whether connecting you with the best cancer specialists or providing free legal help for asbestos exposure, Mesothelioma Hope is here to provide personalized guidance and support every step of the way.

Call us at (866) 608-8933 or fill out our contact form to see how we can help.

The post Linda Reinstein: Wife, Mesothelioma Caregiver, and Asbestos Advocate Shares Her Story appeared first on MesotheliomaHope.com.

Started by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) in 2004, GAAW plays a monumental role in advocating for regulations on asbestos and protecting public health.

Learn more about the goals of GAAW and how you can show support this year.

The Importance of Global Asbestos Awareness Week

Asbestos was used to make thousands of products from the 1930s until the early 1980s, when manufacturers could no longer hide the risks from the public.

Many people think asbestos exposure is an issue of the past. However, it continues to wreak havoc on the health and safety of innocent people.

“Asbestos remains one of the most persistent occupational and environmental health threats of our time, claiming lives long after initial exposure.”

Throughout the 21st annual Global Asbestos Awareness Week, the ADAO will share important statistics to educate the public about the consequences of asbestos use. These statistics debunk many common myths about the carcinogen that continue to put people at risk.

Key Facts About Asbestos

• There is no safe amount of asbestos, meaning even one exposure can lead to serious illnesses.
• Asbestos can still be found in many older structures, including workplaces, homes, schools, and hospitals.
• Any type of asbestos can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related illnesses.
• More than 70% of deaths from occupational cancer are linked to asbestos exposure.

Learn more about asbestos and the products that contained this cancer-causing substance in our Free Asbestos Products Guide.

Themes and Schedule for GAAW 2025

This year’s Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW) will emphasize international cooperation to highlight the persistent — and frequently overlooked — dangers of asbestos.

The campaign will focus on four main themes:

• Banning the mining, manufacturing, and use of all six asbestos fibers worldwide
• Preventing asbestos exposure
• Increasing compliance and enforcement of existing laws and regulations
• Strengthening international partnerships to protect public health

The week will conclude with a global online candlelight vigil on April 7 to pay tribute to victims of asbestos-related diseases.

How to Participate in GAAW 2025

By participating in Global Asbestos Awareness Week, you can help spread the word about deadly asbestos-related diseases, promote life-saving education, and advocate for a complete ban on asbestos.

Here are 6 ways you can take part in GAAW this year:

1. Join local events to advocate for a full asbestos ban.
2. Donate to the ADAO to support the fight against asbestos and asbestos-related illnesses.
3. Share facts about asbestos exposure on social media using the hashtag #2025GAAW.
4. Sign the ADAO’s petition to ban asbestos.
5. Wear blue for asbestos awareness.
6. Write a letter to Congress urging your state representatives to support a full asbestos ban through the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act.

With the help of sponsors like our partner law firm Simmons Hanly Conroy, Global Asbestos Awareness Week 2025 hopes to reach individuals worldwide.

Together, our efforts can unite all those affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases while fostering safe and healthy communities.

Get Help With Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos-Related Diseases

The Mesothelioma Hope team empathizes with the countless families who’ve been devastated by asbestos diseases.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you’re not alone in this battle.

We are here to help — during Global Asbestos Awareness Week and every day throughout your family’s mesothelioma journey. Our experienced Patient Advocates can help you access personalized medical guidance, financial assistance, and supportive care for free.

Get in touch now by calling (866) 608-8933 or filling out our contact form.

The post Get Involved in Global Asbestos Awareness Week 2025 appeared first on MesotheliomaHope.com.

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that can affect the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testicles. Its only cause is exposure to asbestos, a toxic mineral used heavily throughout the 20th century.

See the top 3 ways you can join the efforts this month to help prevent mesothelioma.

1. Avoid Asbestos Exposure

Even asbestos fiber can cause serious damage to the body and increase the risk of mesothelioma.

If your home or workplace was built before the early 1980s, it likely contains asbestos products. To be safe, you should take precautions and report any damage if you see it.

You can protect yourself from asbestos exposure by:

• Consulting with professionals to identify and remove asbestos-based materials
• Not touching or disturbing asbestos-containing products
• Wearing masks or respirators if your job requires you to work around asbestos

Learn more about the products that commonly contained asbestos and what steps you can take to protect yourself in our Free Asbestos Products Guide.

2. Be Proactive About Your Health

Unfortunately, not everyone knew they were being exposed to asbestos or that the products they worked with could cause cancers like mesothelioma decades later.

For these reasons, it’s important to be proactive about your health if you worked in a high-risk occupation like shipbuilding, construction, or firefighting. Veterans should also be mindful of their health since asbestos was heavily used in the U.S. military prior to the early 1980s.

Tips on how to prevent mesothelioma after asbestos exposure: 

• Be open with your doctor: Let them know you may have been exposed to asbestos so they can monitor you for symptoms of mesothelioma.
• Get routine cancer screenings: Regular physical exams and imaging scans can detect changes in your health so you can receive a mesothelioma diagnosis early. An early diagnosis can help you get more effective treatment.
• Stop smoking: While cigarette smoking is not a cause of mesothelioma, it can worsen the damage caused by asbestos and put you at risk of other conditions like lung cancer.

There’s no way to remove asbestos fibers from the body after exposure. However, these tips can help you catch the cancer before it spreads and improve your odds of becoming a mesothelioma survivor.

3. Advocate for a Total Asbestos Ban

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officially banned chrysotile asbestos — the last remaining type in use — in March 2024.

However, some industries have been granted a gradual phase-out period, and the ban doesn’t cover legacy asbestos, leaving many still at risk of exposure.

Because of this, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) continues to advocate for a total ban on asbestos in all forms.

 You can support the ADAO’s efforts by:

• Contacting your Congressperson to support the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act, a bill that calls for a complete ban on asbestos
• Sharing information on social media about the dangers of asbestos and how some workers and military veterans are at an increased risk of mesothelioma
• Signing the petition to ban asbestos with no loopholes or exceptions

These small actions can make real change and prevent mesothelioma and other asbestos-related cancers in future generations.

“If Congress can pass this ban on asbestos, that will save more lives than I ever can.”

Get Help After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you do not have to take this journey alone.

The Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma Hope are dedicated to helping those affected by this cancer get the medical guidance, financial assistance, and supportive care they need and deserve.

Call us at (866) 608-8933 or fill out our contact form to see how we can assist you today.

The post National Cancer Prevention Month: 3 Tips for Preventing Mesothelioma appeared first on MesotheliomaHope.com.

What Is World Cancer Day?

World Cancer Day was started in 2000 by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to unite the global cancer community in the fight to end cancer.

UICC’s mission is to help prevent millions of cancer deaths worldwide by:

• Bringing about individual, community, and government action
• Improving cancer education
• Raising cancer awareness

UICC is dedicated to helping everyone access life-saving cancer treatment no matter how much money they have or where they live. The organization takes the lead on ensuring the fight against cancer is a world health priority.

“UICC’s mission is both to unite and support the cancer community in its efforts to reduce the global cancer burden, promote greater equity, and ensure that cancer control remains a priority on the global health and development agenda.”
— The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC)

Each World Cancer Day, hundreds of activities happen across the globe. The events serve to remind the world that we all must play a role in the fight to reduce the devastating impact of cancer.

Asbestos remains the leading cause of mesothelioma. Download our Free Asbestos Product Guide to learn which products contained asbestos, what steps you can take to protect your family, and how to seek justice if you’ve been diagnosed with this cancer.

United By Unique: World Cancer Day 2025

Each World Cancer Day has a theme, and this year it is “United By Unique.” This theme focuses on putting people first in cancer care by sharing their personal stories and experiences. It aims to show that every diagnosis comes with a unique journey filled with strength, love, and hope.

The “United By Unique” campaign will span 3 years and explore various dimensions of cancer care:

• 2025: Awareness & Understanding
  • Highlight the importance of people-centered cancer care.
  • Share real stories to showcase unique cancer experiences.
  • Emphasize compassion, empathy, and individual needs in treatment.
• 2026: Building Momentum & Action
  • Encourage providers to adopt a patient-first approach.
  • Strengthen support networks for cancer patients and caregivers.
  • Promote policies that improve holistic cancer care.
• 2027: Lasting Impact & Change
  • Advocate for long-term global improvements in cancer care.
  • Ensure people remain at the heart of health care.
  • Inspire continued action for a world where every cancer patient is seen as an individual.

Through these efforts, the UICC hopes to foster a more compassionate and effective approach to cancer care worldwide.

”The World Cancer Day theme ‘United by Unique’ places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of the conversation.

Every individual facing cancer has a unique story, a unique experience – and yet, we’re all united by our shared commitment to create a world where we look beyond the disease and see the person before the patient.”
– Cary Adams, CEO of UICC

How to Show Your Support

There are many ways you can support World Cancer Day. The most important thing to remember is to get involved in any way you can. Change can only happen if people everywhere come together.

Here are some ways to show your support this World Cancer Day:

• Join the Upside Down Challenge using #WorldCancerDay and #UnitedByUnique
• Share official World Cancer Day materials
• Start a conversation with friends, family, and coworkers about cancer
• Make a donation to UICC
• Educate yourself and others about reducing cancer risks
• Wear blue and orange — the official World Cancer Day colors
• Participate in a World Cancer Day event near you

No matter who you are, you can take action toward ending cancer. Join the fight this World Cancer Day. Any amount of support can inspire the change needed for a cancer-free world.

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