Today, The Chief Leader released an article titled “Zadroga Now Covers COPD, Common Illness For WTC Responders,” regarding the World Trade Center Health Program’s recent addition of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder to their list of covered conditions. This addition means that individuals suffering from COPD who were in Lower Manhattan between 9/11/01 and 5/30/02 or at the Fresh Kills Landfill or along debris removal routes such as piers and barges may be eligible for free healthcare and compensation.
The Chief called on Pitta & Baione LLP attorney Christopher J. Baione for input regarding the distinction between 9/11 exacerbated COPD, which had already been included on the list of covered conditions, and COPD directly caused by exposure to WTC dust, added by Dr. John Howard on July 5, 2016.
Previously, only COPD developed before Sept. 11 that was exacerbated by the toxic dust was covered under the World Trade Center Health Program, Chris Baione of the law firm Pitta Giblin Baione explained last week. Mr. Baione and his colleagues represent many 9/11 first-responders, and he said that new scientific studies had shown a direct link between the illness and the attacks.
Sarah Dorsey, The Chief Leader
Pitta & Baione LLP recently published a blog post about this important issue on July 6, 2016. COPD is a debilitating disease and the third leading cause of death in the United States.
For information, please contact Pitta & Baione LLP at info@pgbllp.com or call 844-982-2667.