More than two decades ago, tens of thousands of victims were exposed to carcinogenic toxins following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. While many of these victims were adults, a significant number of young people were exposed to the same toxins that were linked to cancer and other serious medical conditions.
The younger population has been a focus for research to determine how they can be best supported for years and decades to come. The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) continues to provide much-needed medical benefits to those who have suffered a 9/11-related illness, and this includes the population of younger 9/11 toxin exposure victims.
On April 26, 2023, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – a division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that oversees the WTCHP – issued a notice to the public that requested comments and information on new WTCHP research cohorts of individuals who were 21 years of age or younger at the time they were exposed to 9/11 toxins.
The purpose of this research cohort is to “conduct future research studies on the health and educational impacts” concerning this younger population of 9/11 victims. A newly established “youth cohort” would become the basis for future WTCHP research into what is considered a “potentially vulnerable group,” and referred to by NIOSH as “WTC Youth.”
Deadline to Submit Public Comments – August 24, 2023
NIOSH is seeking comments and information on the “specific adverse health, social, and educational effects that are of interest for future research,” along with the methods of identifying individuals to be included in the cohort. The number of individuals involved in the WTC Youth cohort must be large enough from which to draw conclusions on the various impacts of 9/11 exposures.
Because the youth population is now older, 9/11-related conditions which have not yet manifested may be of great concern to these younger victims, as many conditions develop years or decades after exposure. Studies and research are the only methods to truly capture the extent to which the 9/11 attacks and subsequent release of a cocktail of toxins had on the WTC Youth. The results of such studies guide NIOSH and the WTCHP to ensure all 9/11 toxin exposure victims – including WTC Youth – receive the care and treatment they need and deserve.
Deadline to Submit Public Comments – August 24, 2023
NIOSH is seeking comments and information on the “specific adverse health, social, and educational effects that are of interest for future research,” along with the methods of identifying individuals to be included in the cohort. The number of individuals involved in the WTC Youth cohort must be large enough from which to draw conclusions on the various impacts of 9/11 exposures.
Because the youth population is now older, 9/11-related conditions which have not yet manifested may be of great concern to these younger victims, as many conditions develop years or decades after exposure. Studies and research are the only methods to truly capture the extent to which the 9/11 attacks and subsequent release of a cocktail of toxins had on the WTC Youth. The results of such studies guide NIOSH and the WTCHP to ensure all 9/11 toxin exposure victims – including WTC Youth – receive the care and treatment they need and deserve.
Contact the 9/11 Lawyers of Pitta & Baione LLP Today
If you or a loved one is a 9/11 toxin exposure victim, you may be eligible to receive benefits under the WTCHP as well as possible compensation under the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). To learn more about your options, consider reaching out to a qualifying 9/11 lawyer.
At Pitta & Baione LLP, our team of 9/11 lawyers are nationally-recognized for providing superior legal representation and client service to 9/11 survivors, responders, and loved ones of victims who have unfortunately passed away. To receive a free consultation to discuss your situation, contact Pitta & Baione LLP today by calling (844) 982-2667 or by submitting a case inquiry through our website.
