Mesothelioma Awareness Day 2020
MAAC StaffSeptember 3, 2020
Mesothelioma Awareness Day (MAD) is September 26, 2020. This year is the 17th anniversary of the event. During MAD, supporters come together to spread awareness about mesothelioma cancer. Research on the rare cancer is limited. MAD helps raise funds for mesothelioma treatment research.
There are multiple ways to get involved with Mesothelioma Awareness Day. Participants can help show support to mesothelioma patients, their families and others affected by the cancer.
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The Origins of Mesothelioma Awareness Day
The first Mesothelioma Awareness Day took place in 2004. The event was founded by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) and takes place every year on September 26.
MARF frequently hosts events dedicated to mesothelioma. This year, most events are virtual because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Information about these events and other ways to get involved is available on the MARF website.
How to Get Involved With Mesothelioma Awareness Day
There are several ways to show support for Mesothelioma Awareness Day.
- Find an organization to follow and support
- Wear blue and encourage your peers to do the same to show their support
- Share, follow and engage with social media platforms participating in the event
- Start a movement in your own community to spread mesothelioma awareness
- Participate in virtual fundraising events
- Make donations to organizations involved with mesothelioma research
Mesothelioma Awareness Day was founded by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF). MARF has a dedicated page with ways to contribute to the event. There are also suggestions for how to take action in your own community.
Since its inception, many other organizations have hosted their own events and fundraisers for MAD.
MAD is also not confined to September 26. Advocates have begun participation throughout the entire month of September.
For example, the Asbestos Disease and Awareness Organization (ADAO) is one organization using all of September to take action. ADAO has a series of events listed on their events page, including Mesothelioma Awareness Month.
What Does Mesothelioma Awareness Involve?
Mesothelioma awareness encourages asbestos safety, funding for research and support for the mesothelioma community. The mesothelioma community includes patients and loved ones, survivors, researchers, doctors and more.
Asbestos is the most commonly and widely recognized cause of malignant mesothelioma. Many individuals have been exposed to asbestos in the past and are still at risk today. Though asbestos regulations were instated in 1979, the mineral is still not fully banned in the United States.
Mesothelioma awareness can help the community understand the risks associated with asbestos. It can also broaden the mesothelioma community, supporting those affected by the rare cancer.
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer only diagnosed in around 3,100 Americans each year. As a result, mesothelioma research is limited. Mesothelioma awareness can encourage more funding for research.
Mesothelioma research focuses on:
- Diagnostic tools to aid with early detection (an early diagnosis may improve prognosis)
- Effective treatment options (mesothelioma treatment can greatly improve survival)
- Efforts to find a cure (there is currently no cure for mesothelioma cancer)
Mesothelioma Awareness Day Accomplishments
Mesothelioma advocates have made great strides from Mesothelioma Awareness Day. Millions of dollars have been awarded for mesothelioma research grants. The federal government has recognized Mesothelioma Awareness Day and taken action towards asbestos safety.
The event has also brought individuals from across the country together. Patients, survivors and loved ones have been able to share their stories. Community members learn more about the rare cancer and how they can help.
MAD is not confined to those directly affected by mesothelioma. Everyone is encouraged to educate themselves and take action.