Dec 3 2012
Today, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) announced its keynote speakers and honorees for the upcoming Ninth Annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference, titled The Asbestos Crisis: New Trends in Prevention and Treatment.
The conference will be held March 22-24, 2013, at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, VA. More than 30 renowned medical experts and asbestos victims from five countries will speak on the latest advancements in asbestos disease prevention, treatment for mesothelioma and other asbestos-caused diseases, and global ban asbestos advocacy. The conference will also include an Awards and Recognition Dinner and a Unity and Remembrance Brunch, as well as a private lunch and U.S. Capitol tour for victims and their families.
“Only at the ADAO conference can I find experts in so many different asbestos fields sharing the latest information,” said Dr. Richard Lemen, retired U.S. Assistant Surgeon General and ADAO Science Advisory Board Co-Chair. “I wouldn’t miss it.” Dr. Lemen has attended every ADAO conference since the inaugural event in 2005 and will chair the 2013 Medical Advancements session.
The 2013 conference will offer a variety of interactive discussions centered around four key topics: Medical Advancements, Patients Advocacy, Prevention, and Global Ban Asbestos Action. In light of Hurricane Sandy, ADAO recently added a session to specifically address issues surrounding toxic exposure in the aftermath of natural disasters.
“As a mesothelioma widow, I consider it unconscionable that millions of homes, schools, and workplaces still contain asbestos materials,” stated Linda Reinstein, President/CEO and Co-Founder of ADAO. “Asbestos has been a known carcinogen for more than a century, yet consumer, environmental, and occupational asbestos exposure continues in the U.S. and around the world. Until Congress bans asbestos and researchers discover a cure for asbestos-related diseases, ADAO will continue our education, advocacy, and community building initiatives in an effort to prevent asbestos exposure.”
This year’s keynote speakers include Dr. Aubrey Miller, Senior Medical Advisor and National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) Liaison to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and Karen Banton, widow of the late activist Bernie Banton and CEO of the Bernie Banton Foundation.
Each year, ADAO’s conference recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations from around the world that serve as a voice for asbestos victims, raising awareness and advocating for a worldwide asbestos ban. ADAO is delighted to announce the 2013 ADAO Honorees. U.S. Representative Lois Capps will be presented with the Tribute of Hope Award for her steadfast commitment to public health and safety. Dr. Celeste Monforton will be recognized with the Dr. Irving Selikoff Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of her tireless dedication to increasing asbestos awareness to eliminate diseases. The International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers will receive the Tribute of Unity Award for the organization’s relentless efforts, both nationally and internationally, to protect workers’ occupational safety and health. The Tribute of Inspiration Award will be presented to Karen Banton for her untiring efforts to protect workers’ rights and seek justice for asbestos victims and their families. Rob Cagle, who lost his battle with mesothelioma in 2011, and Mavis Nye, a mesothelioma patient, will be honored with the Alan Reinstein Award for their commitment to education, advocacy and support.