Mesothelioma Charities

There are a number of mesothelioma research initiatives underway that are funded not only by medical and educational institutions, but also by charities dedicated to the defeat of mesothelioma and cancer in general. Research in this area is still evolving but great advances are being made, in large part, due to the support of these organizations. Below are a few of the better-known mesothelioma research initiatives and charities.

Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation

The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, more commonly referred to as MARF, is a non-profit national organization dedicated to lobbying for and funding mesothelioma research initiatives. In addition to funding initiatives and research projects, MARF also seeks to connect patients with cancer specialists and mesothelioma programs at the nation’s leading cancer centers. Another tier of MARF’s mission is advocacy for mesothelioma patients in the form of federal and state-level lobbying efforts.

International Mesothelioma Program

The International Mesothelioma Program is a joint initiative of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard University School of Medicine. Led by the esteemed Dr. David Sugarbaker, the IMP is at the forefront of all leading mesothelioma treatment research and practice. Combining a holistic treatment and support program, the IMP has made tremendous strides in surgical treatment for early-stage mesothelioma diagnosis as well as aggressive chemotherapy treatments for later-stage disease.

National Cancer Institute

The National Cancer Institute is part of the National Institute of Health, one of 11 agencies currently operating under the umbrella of the Department of Health and Human Services. In addition to research conducted in its own clinics and laboratories, the NCI supports and coordinates research projects through cancer centers, hospitals, and universities, while also being the primary federal entity responsible for disseminating information about cancer. Mesothelioma research is among the many projects and initiatives being conducted by the institute.

American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society is a nationwide network of community based, voluntary health organizations committed to the research and defeat of cancer. While the ACS is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia and offers services through 9 regional chapters, the organization works in concert with international health organizations to carry out strategic initiatives across the globe. The ACS cooperates with and encourages coordination among cancer specialists and doctors throughout the country in the fight against malignant mesothelioma. They also support research to learn more about the causes of the disease.

LUNGevity Foundation

LUNGevity is primarily a lung cancer advocacy and awareness initiative with a singular stated goal to “Stop Lung Cancer Now.” LUNGevity understands that advancements in lung cancer research and investment into lung cancer initiatives is a national priority and may have ramifications for the advancement of similar mesothelioma projects. Many drugs researched for use among lung cancer patients have been successfully applied to the treatment of malignant mesothelioma and other carcinomas. LUNGevity also provides mesothelioma and non-squamous small cell lung cancer community support forums.

Cancer Hope Network

The Cancer Hope Network is a community of support resources for cancer patients and their families. Among the support resources offered are one-on-one interactions with former cancer patients who can empathize with patient struggles and answer difficult questions both for patients and their families. The Cancer Hope Network has flourished through Internet interaction and now features a full-scale social network, “HopeNet.”

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)

ADAO (Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization) is an independent organization dedicated to raising awareness about the harmful effects of asbestos exposure. Their goal is to provide a voice for asbestos victims, to unite those who have been affected by an asbestos-related disease through community forums and to support research in the areas of asbestos disease prevention, early detection and improved treatment methods.

Miles for Meso

Miles for Meso supports mesothelioma awareness and research through 5K races and fun runs/walks . These events take place throughout the country and proceeds are donated to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. The generosity of both participants and sponsors has helped raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos and unite communities in the fight against mesothelioma.