Founded in 2004, the Asbestos Disease Aware Organization (ADAO) is an independent non-profit organization that is dedicated to giving asbestos victims a voice. The goal of ADAO is to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure, prevent asbestos diseases through education, advocate for a global ban on asbestos and offer support for mesothelioma patients, caregivers and families.
The organization is headed by Linda Reinstein, a mesothelioma widow, who works tirelessly to battle asbestos and raise awareness.
One of the core initiatives of ADAO is to advocate for a global ban on asbestos. Surprisingly, asbestos is not banned in the United States and is still mined and exported from Canada for use in developing nations, such as India. Sadly, many companies continue to perpetuate false information about the health risks of asbestos, usually claiming that certain types of asbestos are “safe” when used in a certain way, to continue making money from the material. ADAO works to debunk this false science and lobby for a global ban — ultimately the only way to completely eradicate asbestos diseases.
ADAO is also dedicated to raising public awareness about the truths behind asbestos. Most people think that asbestos is a thing of the past or that it was banned — both of which are untrue. ADAO works for public awareness about asbestos and the diseases it causes, including mesothelioma. Each year, ADAO sponsors its annual asbestos awareness conference, which brings together asbestos patients, caregivers, advocates and physicians from all over the world to advance the fight against asbestos.
In building greater public awareness, ADAO also seeks to build a support community for victims of asbestos diseases and their families. Since there are only approximately 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma diagnosed each year, there is very little information and support available for people who are dealing with this cancer. ADAO offers online support networks, in-depth information, and events to help educate those who are battling mesothelioma and support those who have lost someone they loved to this horrible cancer.
Baron & Budd is proud to have been a 2012-2013 platinum level sponsor and 2011 gold sponsor of ADAO’s efforts.