Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation achieves Federal appropriations for asbestos-cancer research

The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (Meso Foundation) has announced two historic victories in federal research funding to combat the deadly asbestos-related cancer.

Meso was just included as an eligible disease in the Department of Defense Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, enabling meso investigators from across the nation to compete for research funding under the program's $45 million budget for 2007. At the same time, the National Mesothelioma Registry, which is being created through a 2006 year-end appropriation to the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH), was just awarded another $1 million for 2007.

The inclusion of meso in the DOD Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, and the allocation to NIOSH for the National Mesothelioma Registry, represent the first federal appropriations for meso research ever. They resulted from an intense advocacy effort by the Foundation. In May, Meso Foundation Executive Director Chris Hahn testified before the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcomittee on the high proportion of military veterans who develop mesothelioma. He, the Foundation's government affairs representatives, the Foundation's Scientific Advisory Chairman Harvey Pass, M.D., and other scientific representatives met extensively with Senators and their staffs, educating them on the disease and the exciting potential for treatment breakthroughs if research funding were available. The Foundation also organized a large grass-roots campaign, and many meso investigators, patients, families and volunteers contacted their states' Senators to urge their support.

"The meso community is incredibly excited about these research opportunities. Meso has been an orphan disease for far too long. But, the growing energy and support by public leaders, committed investigators, and our patient community is helping to shine a spotlight on this deadly cancer. The commitment of these new federal dollars to support meso research is a reflection of the significant progress we've made," Hahn said.

The DOD Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program was established to provide funding opportunities for medical research projects of clear scientific merit and direct relevance to military health. "The connection between mesothelioma and military service makes it an appropriate and deserving area of research to include in the program," said Dr. Nicholas Vogelzang, Meso Foundation Board Chairman. "We are also thrilled that in addition to the research opportunities through the DOD, the newly established National Mesothelioma Registry continues to receive considerable support."

The National Mesothelioma Registry was established as a pilot project through the FY 2006 LHHS appropriations legislation. Ultimately, the registry and associated tissue bank will provide vital tools necessary to understand the disease better and advance meso research. NIOSH is expected to announce its initial grant award to commence the registry in the next two months.

"Our research community, physicians, patients and families are grateful to the continued support and leadership of our champions in the U.S. Senate. Together, we will continue to make strides against this deadly cancer," said Hahn.