The first week of April is Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW), a time dedicated to raising awareness of the ongoing dangers of asbestos and how it causes diseases like mesothelioma.
Started by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) in 2004, GAAW plays a monumental role in advocating for regulations on asbestos and protecting public health.
Learn more about the goals of GAAW and how you can show support this year.
The Importance of Global Asbestos Awareness Week
Asbestos was used to make thousands of products from the 1930s until the early 1980s, when manufacturers could no longer hide the risks from the public.
Many people think asbestos exposure is an issue of the past. However, it continues to wreak havoc on the health and safety of innocent people.
“Asbestos remains one of the most persistent occupational and environmental health threats of our time, claiming lives long after initial exposure.”
Throughout the 21st annual Global Asbestos Awareness Week, the ADAO will share important statistics to educate the public about the consequences of asbestos use. These statistics debunk many common myths about the carcinogen that continue to put people at risk.
Key Facts About Asbestos
- There is no safe amount of asbestos, meaning even one exposure can lead to serious illnesses.
- Asbestos can still be found in many older structures, including workplaces, homes, schools, and hospitals.
- Any type of asbestos can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related illnesses.
- More than 70% of deaths from occupational cancer are linked to asbestos exposure.
Learn more about asbestos and the products that contained this cancer-causing substance in our Free Asbestos Products Guide.
Themes and Schedule for GAAW 2025
This year’s Global Asbestos Awareness Week (GAAW) will emphasize international cooperation to highlight the persistent — and frequently overlooked — dangers of asbestos.
The campaign will focus on four main themes:
- Banning the mining, manufacturing, and use of all six asbestos fibers worldwide
- Preventing asbestos exposure
- Increasing compliance and enforcement of existing laws and regulations
- Strengthening international partnerships to protect public health
The week will conclude with a global online candlelight vigil on April 7 to pay tribute to victims of asbestos-related diseases.
How to Participate in GAAW 2025
By participating in Global Asbestos Awareness Week, you can help spread the word about deadly asbestos-related diseases, promote life-saving education, and advocate for a complete ban on asbestos.
Here are 6 ways you can take part in GAAW this year:
- Join local events to advocate for a full asbestos ban.
- Donate to the ADAO to support the fight against asbestos and asbestos-related illnesses.
- Share facts about asbestos exposure on social media using the hashtag #2025GAAW.
- Sign the ADAO’s petition to ban asbestos.
- Wear blue for asbestos awareness.
- Write a letter to Congress urging your state representatives to support a full asbestos ban through the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act.
With the help of sponsors like our partner law firm Simmons Hanly Conroy, Global Asbestos Awareness Week 2025 hopes to reach individuals worldwide.
Together, our efforts can unite all those affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases while fostering safe and healthy communities.
Get Help With Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos-Related Diseases
The Mesothelioma Hope team empathizes with the countless families who’ve been devastated by asbestos diseases.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, you’re not alone in this battle.
We are here to help — during Global Asbestos Awareness Week and every day throughout your family’s mesothelioma journey. Our experienced Patient Advocates can help you access personalized medical guidance, financial assistance, and supportive care for free.
Get in touch now by calling (866) 608-8933 or filling out our contact form.
