The LAM Foundation Information

The LAM Foundation urgently seeks safe and effective treatments, and ultimately a cure, for lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) through advocacy and the funding of promising research. We are dedicated to serving the scientific, medical and patient communities by offering information, resources, and a worldwide network of hope and support. The LAM Foundation is the global leader in the fight against lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM). Founded in 1995 as a grass roots effort, The LAM Foundation has evolved into an organization that is described by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) as "a model for voluntary health agencies." LAM is a rare and progressive lung disease that primarily affects women and has no known cure. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, The LAM Foundation provides support and education for women with LAM and their families, engages doctors and scientists to continue to learn more about the disease and raises funds for continued research. In May 2015, the FDA approved Rapamune as the first effective treatment for LAM, based on research and patient engagement supported by The LAM Foundation. Through the efforts of a committed Board of Directors and staff, the Foundation has raised more than $26 million in 24 years. Over 60% of this has been committed to research which further seeded an estimated $40 million in subsequent funding from federal sources to advance the field of LAM research. This research effort has produced more than 125 grant-related publications, a diagnostic biomarker that can obviate the need for lung biopsy, and a pivotal clinical trial that has identified the first treatment. In addition to its world-renowned Scientific Board, 60+ LAM Clinics have been established across the globe which focus referrals to expert regional centers and facilitate clinical trials. This ‘distributed expertise’ model fosters scientific interest in LAM at academic medical centers around the country and provides care close to home.