David J. Sugarbaker, M.D., renowned thoracic surgeon and the founder of the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP), will be a special guest at a luncheon today hosted by the law firm of Baron & Budd, P.C.. Dr. Sugarbaker founded the International Pleural Mesothelioma Program as a response to the growing incidence of mesothelioma, a disease caused by asbestos exposure. Baron & Budd serves on the executive advisory board of the International Pleural Mesothelioma Program and donated the funding for the design, development, and hosting of the IMP website, www.impmeso.org

Recognizing that a cure for mesothelioma can only result from a collaborative effort of committed professionals, the International Pleural Mesothelioma Program includes some of the finest surgeons, oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, pulmonologists, researchers, and medical and social science professionals from Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The goal of the program is to offer potentially curative therapy to patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).

Dr. Sugarbaker will speak to Baron & Budd attorneys and staff about recent advances made by the IMP program in treating mesothelioma. "The International Pleural Mesothelioma Program is one of the most highly-respected mesothelioma research and treatment programs in the country," said Russell Budd, managing shareholder of Baron & Budd. "We are incredibly honored to have Dr. Sugarbaker as our guest today."