Mesothelioma Awareness Week has been designated for the first week in April in an effort to raise awareness for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. The Mesothelioma Awareness Week resolution makes the point that individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma are expected to survive 6 to 24 months after the diagnosis. The resolution also urges the Surgeon General to warn the public about asbestos-related health issues.
Montana Senator Baucus proposed Mesothelioma Awareness Week to remember the asbestos-related tragedies of the past and to look to the future in helping those victims and families who are affected by asbestos-related diseases. Senator Baucus went on to say that the resolution for the Mesothelioma Awareness week was a “rallying cry to keep the tragedy of Libby from happening again” and was proposed in an effort to “remind people that much more work lies ahead to help victims of asbestos-related diseases.” Additional cosponsors and key supporters include: Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL), Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senator Harry Reid (D-NV), and Senator Jon Tester (D-MT).
Senator Baucus represents the Libby, Montana residents where it is estimated that sixty percent of the people living in Libby has some asbestos-related disease due to the Libby Mines nearby. The Libby Mines operated from 1919 to 1990 when W.R. Grace halted operations. During its operations, this was one of the most productive asbestos vermiculite mines. Those affected by the Libby Mines include miners, mill workers, families and neighbors of the Libby Mine site.
Asbestos is a known cause for cancer and exposure can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer or other asbestos-related diseases. Mesothelioma is described as localized if the cancer is found only on the membrane surface where it originated. It is classified as advanced if it has spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.