October 14th, 2004

Mesothelioma is the one form of cancer that is often under-funded and about which education is still severely lacking. However, both victims and support groups are hoping that will change this week with the first international symposium to focus on mesothelioma.

The two day symposium is to be held on October 14th to the 16th, and will be held at the MGM Grand Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada. This meeting will be the first of its kind, bringing together people from all walks of life that share one common interest – finding a cure for mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos, and it can affect the heart, lungs and abdominal region of the body. Although research is being conducted into the disease, it is severely under-funded and so far no cure has been found.

It is hoped that the symposium will bring national attention to the urgency of focusing on this form of cancer. The national spokesman for the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO), Jordan Zevon, will be there and the Honorable Harry Reid, Nevada Senator will be conducting the main speech. Washington Senator Patty Murray will also be there, and will be accepting an award on behalf of Congressman Bruce Vento. He died in 2000 from mesothelioma.