Cancer in WTC Rescue, Recovery and Cleanup Workers
Studies identify higher incidence of cancer
More than 10 years after the attacks of 9/11 and long after the clean-up ended, rescue and recovery workers continue to sacrifice. New studies are finding a higher incidence of cancer among uniformed and civilian workers who served during the WTC clean-up operations that may be linked to exposure to chemicals present at the site. At Barasch McGarry Salzman & Penson, PC, our goal is to help those who served following 9/11 get the compensation and health care they need to mitigate the continuing ill effects of exposure. If you or someone you love is suffering from WTC cancers and other chronic conditions, we may be able to help them qualify for compensation and medical treatment under the James Zadroga Act and other programs.
A potential link between WTC exposure and certain cancers
In 2011, research began to appear suggesting the possibility of a higher incidence of cancer in WTC rescue and recovery workers. Studies have found that NYFD firefighters who worked at Ground Zero for at least one day were 19 percent more likely to develop cancer than their colleagues who did not work at the site. The greatest disparities appeared in cases of prostate cancer, melanoma, colon cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Although cancer was not initially included in the list of conditions and injuries presumptively covered under the Zadroga Act and accompanying regulations, federal regulators with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have recently announced that 50 types of cancer will soon be covered. WTC first responders, rescuers and clean-up workers suffering from any of these types of cancer may now be entitled to free medical care and may file claims for compensation from the September 11 fund.
Barasch McGarry Salzman & Penson, PC — helping set things right
The attorneys of Barasch McGarry Salzman & Penson, PC devote a substantial portion of our practice to aiding first responders and workers now suffering due to their involvement in WTC rescue and clean-up activities. We remain abreast of the latest developments in the Zadroga Act and stand ready to help those newly entitled to benefits under the new regulations. While we know that no amount of money could ever make up for your pain and losses, we strongly believe that everyone injured, made ill or bereaved by the catastrophes of September 11th should receive as much financial support as possible. Please contact us online or by phone at 888-351-9421 to determine eligibility for WTC compensation or to start the process of applying for James Zadroga Act benefits.
