ADAO Conference Scheduled for March 28th

When a Manhattan Beach, California resident died from a disease linked to asbestos exposure three years ago, his family vowed to provide support to other families in the same position.

Alan Reinstein contracted mesothelioma, a cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen. Mesothelioma is most commonly linked to asbestos exposure. Mr. Reinstein was likely exposed to asbestos while working on the construction of nuclear submarines in the 1960s. The latency period for asbestos-related diseases a minimum of 10 to 15 years, although the disease may not develop fully for up to three decades.

Alan Reinstein’s wife, Linda, founded the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization with her daughter in 2004. The ADAO now boasts over 4,000 members, and will be holding their 5th annual conference on Saturday March 28th. Doctors, those afflicted with asbestos-related diseases, and their family members.

Prominent guests at the conference include Stephen M. Levin, medical director of Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. Dr. Levin treats New Yorkers who were exposed to asbestos during the tragic events of 9-11.

Asbestos is a silicate mineral commonly used to coat pipes and wires. It can be found in such building components as siding, insulation, and roofing. Asbestos is mixed with cements and woven into fabrics because it has a high resistance to both heat and chemicals.

Although asbestos has been banned in 40 countries, the United States has not banned the substance, although use of asbestos is regulated.

According to official statistics, asbestos- related diseases kill 10,000 Americans a year, though the ADAO estimates the number of deaths yearly is actually closer to 40,000.