The Meso Foundation Applauds the Newly Formed Deadliest Cancers Caucus
Alexandria, VA (PRWEB) May 29, 2014 -- On May 8, a Dear Colleague letter was sent out by the founding co-chairs of the newly established Congressional Caucus on the Deadliest Cancers to invite other Representatives to join the Caucus. The caucus, founded by Representatives Leonard Lance (R-NJ), Anna Eshoo (D-CA), Dave Reichert (R-WA), and Henry Waxman (D-CA), described its purpose by stating that “because almost half of all cancer deaths in the U.S. are attributable to one of the deadliest cancers, it’s imperative that we monitor implementation and what, if any, additional steps Congress should take to address these most lethal cancers.”
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (Meso Foundation) applauds the formation of the Caucus. “We are so pleased to see the formation of the Deadliest Cancers Caucus in the House,” said Mary Hesdorffer, expert nurse practitioner and the executive director of the Meso Foundation. “Congress has recognized the need to do more for the most lethal cancers, and we are anxious to see progress. We will continue to dialogue with the Caucus and support them in any way we can.”
Mesothelioma is one of the deadliest cancers with a five year survival rate of less than ten percent. With only has one FDA-approved treatment, the need for mesothelioma research is dire and urgent.
The Meso Foundation is encouraging constituents to request that their respective Congressional Representatives sign-on to the letter. The request can be made by filling out a form on the Foundation’s website.
Mesothelioma is a malignant tumor of the lining of the lung, abdomen, or heart known to be caused by exposure to asbestos. Medical experts consider it one of the most aggressive and deadly of all cancers. An estimated one-third of those who develop mesothelioma were exposed while serving in the Navy or working in shipyards.
About the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation
The Meso Foundation is the only 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating mesothelioma and easing the suffering caused by this cancer. The Meso Foundation actively seeks philanthropic support to fund peer-reviewed mesothelioma research; provide patient support services and education; and advocate Congress for increased federal funding for mesothelioma research. The Meso Foundation is the only non-government funder of peer reviewed scientific research to establish effective treatments for mesothelioma and, ultimately, a cure for this extremely aggressive cancer. To date, the Foundation has awarded over $8.7 million to research. More information is available at http://www.curemeso.org.
Maja Belamaric, Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, http://www.curemeso.org/site/c.duIWJfNQKiL8G/b.8598593/k.D685/Homepage.htm, +1 7038793822, [email protected]
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