Causes: Cancer, Cancer Research, Health

Mission: The mission of the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (Meso Foundation) is to eradicate mesothelioma as a life-ending disease. Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer of the linings of the chest or abdomen. Asbestos exposure is the only known cause.

The Foundation solicits and rigorously reviews applications, and then awards significant grants for research on the prevention, early detection, and treatment of mesothelioma. Through its website and literature, its direct communications, and its annual International Symposium on Malignant Mesothelioma, the Foundation provides patients, family members, and physicians with hope, encouragement, and information. The Foundation employs a full-time mesothelioma nurse practitioner to help patients navigate their treatments. In addition, the Foundation works to enhance awareness of this disease and to encourage federal funding for research.

Results: $10.8 million awarded to peer-reviewed mesothelioma research114 projects fundedThousands of patients and family members helpedSupport groups for patients, caregivers, those who suffered a loss

Programs: The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (also known as the Meso Foundation) is the only 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating mesothelioma and easing the suffering caused by this cancer. It does so by focusing on four main program areas:
• RESEARCH: Funding and support of the highest level of peer-reviewed mesothelioma research;
• EDUCATION: Educating patients, their families, risk populations, and the public at large about mesothelioma;
• SUPPORT: Providing patient support services;
• ADVOCACY: Advocating Congress for increased federal funding for mesothelioma research. The Meso Foundation is the only non-government funder of peer-reviewed scientific research to establish life-saving treatments for mesothelioma. To date, the Foundation has directly awarded over $10.8 million and, through its advocacy efforts, has directed another $20+ million to promising mesothelioma research.