Mesothelioma Foundations and Charities

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. Also referred to as asbestos cancer, the World Health Organization estimates that 90,000 people world-wide die every year from mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancers. In addition, approximately 3,000 people are diagnosed with the deadly disease in the United States each year.

Mesothelioma is highly aggressive and is resistant to many of the current cancer treatments. While there is no known cure for mesothelioma, new research and an increased knowledge among medical professionals has increased the survival time and improved the quality of life for many patients.

Often referred to as an orphan disease when comparing the amount of research and development dedicated to developing new treatments for mesothelioma to other cancers and diseases, there are still many physicians, charities and foundations that are dedicated to finding a cure for mesothelioma. Their research requires significant amounts of time and money, and without appropriate funding, their efforts would not be possible.

The benefits that these organizations provide to patients, families, and caregivers are great. If you are looking for a resource for information pertaining to mesothelioma these organizations are established and many have been recognized for their support and dedication to the field of research and medicine.

Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF)
"The Meso Foundation is the national organization dedicated to eradicating mesothelioma as a life-ending disease" through funding the highest quality and most promising research projects, helping patients connect with national mesothelioma experts, and advocating in Washington D.C. for federal mesothelioma research funding.

The work of the Foundation is funded by mesothelioma patients and their families, law firms, drug companies, and companies formerly involved with asbestos.

The Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America (MESORFA)
The Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America's mission is simply to "fund research that will lead to the quickest cure for mesothelioma." MESORFA funds the Mesothelioma Laboratory under the supervision of Dr. Gill at the USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center in Los Angeles.

MESORFA has a goal of making mesothelioma a disease of the past and they continue to educate the public and companies on the risks of asbestos.

Pacific Heart, Lung & Blood Institute (PHLBI)
PHLBI is a non-profit institution focused on the treatment and prevention of malignant pleural mesothelioma. Through their partnership with Dr. Robert Cameron, Director, Thoracic Oncology, Department of Surgery, UCLA Medical Center, PHLBI offers information designed to provide a place for patients and families to research the topic of mesothelioma.

Pacific Heart, Lung & Blood Institute (PHLBI) supports the research efforts of Dr. Cameron and the Punch Worthington Lab at UCLA.

Lung Cancer Alliance
"Lung Cancer Alliance is the only national non-profit organization dedicated solely to providing patient support and advocacy for people living with or at risk for the disease." Their services and advocacy programs include direct communication with federal and state policy leaders for gaining greater resources for lung cancer research, support of fundraisers, lung cancer clinical trials matching service, public education and campaigns, among other activities.

Support and donations to Lung Cancer Alliance provides them with the ability to maintain their unique programs for patients, elevate public awareness about lung cancer and mesothelioma, and advocate change health policy.

The National Mesothelioma Foundation (NMF)
The National Mesothelioma Foundation is a non-profit organization with a mission to help patients and their families seeking evaluation and treatment at The M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. NMF provides services including assistance with travel and lodging arrangements, providing documentation and information regarding mesothelioma, as well as emotional and spiritual support.

The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center is among the top ranked cancer treatment centers in the United States. The cancer center has over 30 specialists on staff that supports the treatment of mesothelioma patients.