National LAM Foundation Advocates for Women Affected by Rare Lung Disease at LAMposium in Chicago, March 26-29, 2015

CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwired - Mar 23, 2015) - About 1,400 American women and some 3,000 globally have been diagnosed with LAM or Lymphangioleiomyomatosis, a progressive and rare deadly lung disease which affects women during their child bearing years. One in 10 Americans is affected by a rare disease, and there are 7,000 rare diseases with only 500 having a known treatment.

From March 26-29 in Chicago, The LAM Foundation will convene its annual conference of some 300 patients, scientists and clinicians to announce advancements made in treating LAM and mark the 20^th anniversary of The LAM Foundation. Over the three days, some 50 sessions will be led by leading physicians and scientists. The 2015 LAMposium will be hosted at The Hyatt Regency O'Hare, 9300 Bryn Mawr Avenue, Rosemont, IL 60018.

The LAM Foundation, based in Cincinnati, is working on a national basis to enhance the care of LAM patients as well as fostering collaboration among scientists, clinicians and patients to inspire innovative research efforts. Over the past 20 years, The LAM Foundation has raised more than $19 million and directed the majority to research. These funds have contributed to three major scientific breakthroughs, including the first evidence of a genetic link to LAM, the identification of a LAM gene, a molecular explanation for abnormal smooth muscle cell growth in LAM, and the first-ever LAM treatment trial.