New York City Law Firm Fights for Victims of Cancers Caused by 9/11
Studies identify higher incidence of disease in WTC rescue, recovery and clean-up workers
The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks claimed nearly 3,000 lives that day. Unfortunately, more than a decade later, the number of victims continues to climb as cancers caused by toxins at Ground Zero devastate the bodies of first responders, cleanup workers, and Lower Manhattan residents and employees.
The attorneys at Barasch McGarry Salzman & Penson in New York have seen cancer attack so many people who have already suffered and sacrificed so much. Our mission is to help these individuals qualify for compensation and medical treatment under the James Zadroga Act and other programs.
The attacks pulverized buildings and their contents, spreading dust and debris in the air and across the disaster site. People came in contact with glass, fibers and construction materials, and a host of known carcinogens including:
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Three studies. Different populations. One conclusion.
The most persuasive study confirming a link between the exposure and cancer was published in April 2013 in Environmental Health Perspectives. The World Trade Center Health Program study examined nearly 21,000 WTC rescue and recovery workers and found a 15 percent overall increased risk of cancer compared to the general population. However, the increased risk for some cancers was as follows:
- Thyroid cancer (239 percent)
- Soft-tissue cancers (226 percent)
- Blood and lymph cancers (36 percent)
- Prostate cancer (21 percent)
In 2011, a study of almost 10,000 NYC firefighters found that those 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 lymphoma. Another study of 56,000 people, including those who lived or worked near the World Trade Center, found a 14 percent increase in all cancers, and higher rates of multiple myeloma, thyroid and prostate cancers.
The James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act was updated in 2012 to provide free medical care to those suffering from 9/11-related cancers. Previously, cancer was not covered by the Act. In addition to healthcare, compensation may be available from the September 11th Fund for cancer sufferers and their families.
Turn to our experienced advocates when 9/11 cancer strikes
If you or someone you love is suffering from WTC-related cancer or other chronic condition, our attorneys may be able to help you qualify for compensation and medical treatment. Not every cancer is covered, and not all victims can document their exposure. Our law firm devotes a substantial portion of its practice to helping clients figure it out.
Barasch McGarry Salzman & Penson keeps abreast of the latest developments in the Zadroga Act and stands ready to help those 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 catastrophe of 9/11 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.
