Cancer is one of the most common health conditions associated with those who survived the September 11th World Trade Center Attacks, however, cancer is not always an immediate threat. Some cancers, including those linked to exposure to toxic materials at Ground Zero, develop slowly and may never fully progress if identified and treated early. These types of conditions are known as precancerous conditions.
Unfortunately, precancerous conditions can sometimes turn into cancer if left untreated. One of the most prominent struggles for 9/11 survivors and first responders is getting the help they need to treat both cancerous and precancerous conditions related to the events on 9/11. While the Zadroga Acts and September 11th Victim Compensation Fund exist to support these individuals, many are unfairly denied access to the help they need.
If you have a precancerous health condition arising from the World Trade Center attacks, Pitta and Baione LLP can advocate for you to fight for the medical treatment you need. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Did 9/11 Cause Cancer?
The destruction of the World Trade Center released many toxic substances into the air, making the air in the surrounding environment hazardous to breathe. Chemicals present in the area that day included soot, benzene, cement, asbestos, heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and dioxins, all of which are carcinogenic and have been linked to cancer and precancerous conditions.
Many of those who were present in and around Ground Zero on September 11th, 2001 inhaled these chemicals. Those who lived or worked in Lower Manhattan for up to 10 months following the attacks were at the highest risk for the inhalation of toxic dust and cancer-causing materials.
How the Zadroga Act Helps 9/11 Survivors
The Zadroga Act is a government program established to provide healthcare services and financial compensation to individuals suffering from medical conditions related to the events of 9/11. In passing the Zadroga Act, the government established two key programs: the World Trade Center Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). The WTC Health Program offers medical monitoring and treatment for health conditions related to 9/11 exposure, including respiratory illnesses, cancers, and mental health disorders, while the VCF compensates individuals for their lost income, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Those who were present at the exposure zone for up to ten months following the attacks may qualify for these critical benefits. Contact our firm today to discuss your case.
Conditions Covered by the WTCHP Under the Zadroga Act
The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) provides coverage for a wide range of medical and mental health conditions for eligible participants. Here are a few of the more common conditions the WTCHP covers:
- Respiratory and Lung Conditions: These include chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pulmonary fibrosis that result from prolonged exposure to dust and debris.
- Cancers: A broad spectrum of cancers is covered, including lung, thyroid, and prostate cancers, as well as rare cancers like mesothelioma, which are linked to toxic substances released following the attack.
- Mental Health Disorders: Mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety, are covered by the WTCHP.
- Gastrointestinal Conditions: Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are common among survivors due to both stress and the airborne toxins they ingested on 9/11 that can affect the digestive system.
- Musculoskeletal Disorders: First responders in particular have reported musculoskeletal conditions such as lower back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome sustained during their rescue and recovery efforts.
If you believe you are suffering from a condition related to the September 11th attacks but not listed here, you may still be eligible for benefits under the Zardoga Act. Contact Pitta & Baione LLP for more information.
9/11 and Endometrial Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Endometrial Intraepithelial Neoplasia (EIN) is a rare but aggressive condition affecting the lining of the uterus. It is marked by abnormal cell growth that increases the risk of developing endometrial cancer. Though not classified as cancer, EIN is treated with similar urgency due to its potential to progress to malignancy if left untreated.
The WTC Health Program and VCF now recognize EIN as a serious condition eligible for benefits, compensating it similarly to cancer diagnoses with payouts of up to $250,000. Our firm has confirmed this information with both organizations and is prepared to take on cases concerning this rare condition.
Just like other types of cancer or precancerous conditions associated with 9/11, studies conducted by the CDC have shown the inhalation of toxic dust and carcinogenic materials at Ground Zero can contribute to the likelihood of developing EIN. Repeated exposure to these chemicals has been linked to inflammation and hormonal imbalances, factors known to increase the risk of abnormal cellular growth in the uterine lining and in other reproductive organs.
Precancerous Conditions from 9/11 FAQ
How Likely Am I to Get Cancer if I Have Been Diagnosed with EIN?
While EIN is considered a precancerous condition, women who have been diagnosed with EIN are 45 times more likely to develop endometrial cancer, according to some studies.
How Many People Got Cancer from 9/11?
As of now, there are more than 24,000 cases of 9/11-related cancer, and this number is expected to continue to rise as more awareness spreads. The types of cancer associated with survivors and first responders of 9/11 – prostate cancer, leukemia, and thyroid cancer – are 19%, 41%, and 81% higher than the general population.
What Is Ground Zero Cancer?
Ground Zero cancer refers to the various types of cancers that have developed among 9/11 survivors and first responders due to prolonged exposure to toxic dust and hazardous materials released during the collapse of the Twin Towers.
Could My Pre-Existing Condition Be Covered by the WTCHP?
Many cancer and precancerous conditions are covered by the WTC Health Program. To qualify for support, a victim’s condition must be related to the attacks or to the aftermath following the attacks. Pre-existing conditions may not be covered if a person was suffering from that condition prior to the attacks, but you may be entitled to benefits if exposure caused your pre-existing condition to worsen.
Talk to a Lawyer About Your 9/11 Precancerous Condition Claim
Our firm has successfully recovered millions of dollars in damages for our clients because we understand the challenges they face on a personal level. Our firm is located mere blocks away from Ground Zero, and even before programs like the Victims Compensation Fund and the World Trade Center Health Program existed, our lawyers were lobbying Congress to establish 9/11 benefits programs for our clients.
Whether you have a quick question about enrolling to receive healthcare benefits or are looking for legal representation, we encourage you to contact Pitta & Baione LLP for a free consultation.
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