Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute (ADDRI)

All of ADDRI congratulates Professor Ken Takahashi on receiving the highest honour of the Collegium Ramazzini. The award is in recognition of his many years of service to the Collegium Ramazzini, his exceptional contributions to understanding the disease caused by asbestos, and his unrelenting efforts in countries around the world, and especially in Asia and Australia, to the current and future prevention of the asbestos-related diseases. Highly esteemed across the world, Professor Ken Takahashi, MD, PhD, MPH is ADDRI's Honorary International Advisor and was our previous Research Director who ensured ADDRI secured its WHO Collaborating Centre status. This is but one of his many extraordinary achievements. As a physician trained in Epidemiology and in Occupational & Environmental Health, Ken is recognised as one of the world’s foremost leaders in the study, treatment, and prevention of the diseases caused by asbestos. He has published extensively, and courageously communicated his scientific findings to policy makers and the public in his unceasing efforts to prevent these diseases, reduce disability, and save lives. A wonderful and much deserved achievement Ken (pictured holding his award) and we are all so very proud.

Lorenzo Tito: Celebrating life 20 Years Post-Surgery Today, Lorenzo Tito marks a significant milestone: twenty years since his Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP) surgery after a mesothelioma diagnosis – the longest surviving EPP patient. Lorenzo’s battle with mesothelioma began in 2004 after years of working at the Cement Works near the Powerhouse in Kandos, New South Wales. Routine X-rays conducted by the Lung Bus program led to further testing, which confirmed his diagnosis. Initially given a prognosis of just 18 months to live, Lorenzo faced the dire reality of his condition with courage. Determined to fight, he opted for a radical and highly invasive surgical procedure under the care of A/Professor Brian McCaughan. The surgery, which took place on Melbourne Cup Day, involved the removal of his diseased lung, along with parts of the pericardium, diaphragm, and pleura. This was part of a trimodality therapy that included chemotherapy and subsequent radiotherapy. The recovery was arduous and lengthy, but Lorenzo emerged from the experience with renewed strength. Over the past two decades, he has embraced life, traveling and engaging in handywork for his family. His determination to make the most of his time is evident in his love for simple pleasures, such as spending time with his children and grandchildren, enjoying fish and chips by the beach and indulging in his favourite Darrell Lea liquorice all sorts and bullets. Lorenzo’s appreciation for music has been a constant source of joy, with a diverse taste that ranges from Billy Joel and Dr. Hook to the operatic tones of Pavarotti. His positivity and zest for life continue to inspire those around him. For his surgeon, A/Professor Brian McCaughan, this is a wonderful outcome: “I have been following Lorenzo closely in the years post operation and am delighted to witness his long-term survival with malignant mesothelioma. I believe this is testament to the appropriate management of this particular malignancy in the setting of an active multidisciplinary team, considering all possible options of treatment and selection of the right treatment for the right patient at the right time. Radical surgery in the form of extrapleural pneumonectomy is only recommended in a very small minority of patients with mesothelioma, but in those patients such as Lorenzo, it can result in impressive outcomes and survival. I congratulate Lorenzo on reaching this milestone.” As he celebrates this remarkable twenty-year milestone, Lorenzo’s journey stands as a testament to resilience, hope and the power of embracing. His story highlights the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity and serves as an inspiration to many.

Our Education Module is a must-know for nurses and healthcare professionals caring for mesothelioma patients. After completing this module, you will be able to: • Define asbestos and the history of its use in Australia. • Explain how asbestos exposure occurs and identify who is at risk. • Explain the types and histopathology of mesothelioma. • Describe the presentation and diagnosis of patients with pleural mesothelioma. • Describe the clinical treatment for patients with pleural mesothelioma. • Identify the importance of palliative and good end of life care for patients with pleural mesothelioma. You can access it here: https://lnkd.in/g54t-HcU

A fabulous achievement by our Postdoctoral Researcher Ben Johnson - runner up for his pitch on his work in pleural mesothelioma at the Centre for Drug Discovery Innovation!

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of renowned ABC journalist Matt Peacock. A dedicated advocate for asbestos victims, Matt spent his career raising awareness of the serious health impacts of asbestos exposure through his investigative work, articles, and books. His book Killer Company, which inspired the ABC mini-series Devil’s Dust, highlights his commitment to justice and awareness for those affected by - entirely preventable - asbestos exposure. Matt’s contributions have left a lasting impact, and we extend our sincere condolences to his family. Vale, Matt Peacock. You have left an incredible legacy.

Have your say on the Silica Worker Register before Sunday, November 3rd! The register will collect information about workers exposed to silica dust, which can cause silicosis. This information will be used to identify at-risk workers and provide early intervention and health monitoring. The NSW Government is seeking feedback from workers, unions, employers and other interested parties. Learn more and have your say: https://lnkd.in/d5s-DmPV

Have questions about asbestos? We’ve got the answers🔍. Check out our FAQ page for more information on asbestos awareness and safety in the lead up to National Asbestos Awareness Week next month. https://lnkd.in/gJ9qfHhJ #AsbestosAwareness #ADDRI #SafetyFirst

"When you break a bone you forget the pain, but when you are mentally shattered by a diagnosis that pain stays for a long time." Trevor shares his raw and honest experience with his diagnosis and provides a deeper understanding of the mental health journey patients can face after diagnosis. More on his story here: https://lnkd.in/dnKujcBq Need support? Find resources and support groups on our website https://lnkd.in/gw9TqwUv #ADDRI #podcast #diagnosis #support

What a wonderful day we had at our ADDRI Carers Day event hosted by Biaggio Signorelli Foundation at SkyHarvest—a bespoke rooftop garden in Darling Harbour, inside the Doltone House Hospitality Group head office. Thank you to all the carers who joined us for a day of connection, relaxation and delicious food. We hope you enjoyed meeting our support nurses in person after talking on the phone for a couple of years, connecting with other carers and discussing your experiences in a supportive environment. #ADDRI #CarersDay #SignorelliSkyHarvest #BiaggioSignorelliFoundation #DoltoneHouse

Let's work together to support our carers of those battling asbestos-related diseases and mesothelioma and make a positive impact on their lives. Here are a few tips to support careers: 📞 Check in regularly: A simple phone call or visit can make a world of difference. 💤 Offer a break: Give the carer a chance to rest and recharge. 💛 Acknowledge and appreciate: Let them know how much their efforts mean to you. 🧘🏼 Encourage self-care: Remind them to take care of themselves, too. 🫂 Initiate support: Help them find resources and services that can assist them. Info on support can be found on our website - https://lnkd.in/g7BxHckU #ADDRI #NationalCarersWeek #CarerSupport #ThankYouCarers