In 2012, the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) recognized the definitive link between being in lower Manhattan on or after 9/11 and 70+ different types of cancer, including cancers of the digestive and breathing systems such as lung and colorectal cancer and breast cancer, skin cancer, and many others.
In 2013, the WTCHP approved a rule that added prostate cancer to the list of 9/11-related cancers eligible for lifetime healthcare.
In 2014, the WTCHP expanded the list of 9/11-caused cancers to include malignant neoplasms of the brain, the cervix uteri, the pancreas, and the testis, as well as childhood and rare cancers – all confirmed as caused by the 9/11 dust and fumes.
Finally, in 2023, after much advocacy, the WTCHP added uterine/endometrial cancer to the list of covered cancers caused by exposure to the 9/11 dust and fumes.
September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF)
The significance of the WTCHP recognizing the link between exposure to the 9/11 dust – by responders or by working, living, or going to school in the lower Manhattan Disaster Area (south of Canal Street) between 9/11 and May 30, 2002, is that these individuals are eligible for free lifetime free health coverage plus are eligible for compensation from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF).
Ongoing Health Monitoring
Tragically, over 1,366 survivors and responders have died from 9/11 cancers. Those living with a 9/11 cancer diagnosis are even more numerous, and the numbers have increased dramatically in the past decade from 1,870 confirmed 9/11 cancer cases in 2013 to 20,612 cases in 2020.
If you or a loved one was present in Lower Manhattan on 9/11 or any time through mid-2002 and were diagnosed with any type of cancer, it is most likely that the cancer was caused by exposure to the 9/11 toxins. Ongoing health monitoring and no-cost treatment are available to eligible first responders and also downtown workers/residents/students and can make a significant impact on their health outcomes.
Exposure to Toxic Dust and Debris
One of the primary factors linking 9/11 to cancer is the toxic dust and debris that arose from the collapse of the Trade Center and other nearby buildings. This dust, which was composed of a variety of hazardous materials – asbestos, glass, construction debris, lead, and mercury – was inhaled by thousands of people in the area.
The dust was so thick and pervasive that it covered much of lower Manhattan and lingered in the air for several months after the attacks. Even indoors, the air was contaminated with toxic particles, smoke, and vapors undetectable to the eye. The inhalation of these substances can disrupt an individual’s airway and digestive system and has been linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer.
The First Manifestations of Illness
In the weeks and months following the attacks, many of those survivors (the area workers, residents, and students) and first responders who had been exposed to the toxic dust began to experience health problems, such as respiratory and digestive issues, as well as mental health challenges. Many of these symptoms have been attributed to the toxic cloud of dust and debris, and even a small window of exposure time resulted in manifestations of illness.
Those exposed to the immediate dust from the collapse of the two towers experienced the highest rates of health issues. Studies conducted on first responders who worked in the rubble of Ground Zero found that they had an increased risk of developing lung, digestive, and mental health problems. The health problems of those exposed to the dust have been linked to the presence of asbestos and other hazardous chemicals in the dust, including benzene and dioxins.
In addition to the physical health problems, there has also been a significant increase in psychological distress among those exposed to the dust. Studies have found that those exposed to the dust had higher rates of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depression. These symptoms have been linked to the trauma of the event and the fear of developing further health complications.
In the years since the attacks, the health effects of the toxic dust have continued to be studied, with the hope of providing better treatment and relief for those affected.
The Effect on the General Population
Though the most immediate and direct effects of the 9/11 attacks are felt by those who were near Ground Zero on the day of the attacks, but the toxic dust and debris had a far-reaching impact on the general population of the surrounding area – up to 1.5 miles away Studies have shown that for those who lived within 1.5 miles of Ground Zero, the risk of cancer is significantly higher than for those who did not live in the area. Those who lived, worked, studied, or traveled in the area, even for a short period of time, may have been exposed to toxic dust and debris, and carcinogenic substances.
Increased Risk of Cancer
Research has shown that those who were exposed to the toxic dust at Ground Zero or who lived, worked, or studied in the surrounding area are at an increased risk of developing cancer. The first signs of this began about two years after the attacks. A report from Mount Sinai indicates that police officers and 9/11 first responders who responded to the attacks on 9/11 face a 41% higher risk of leukemia, a 25% higher chance of prostate cancer, and more than double the risk of thyroid cancer when compared to the general population. Increased rates of multiple myeloma have also been reported among the 9/11 rescue and recovery workers.
Types of Cancer Linked to 9/11
The WTC Health Program (WTCHP), which was established as part of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act to provide medical treatment and monitoring to those affected by the 9/11 attacks, has identified more than 70 types of cancer linked to the disaster. The most common types of cancer linked to 9/11 exposure are skin cancer and prostate cancer.
Other types of cancer linked to 9/11 include but are not limited to, thyroid cancer, lung cancer, mesothelioma, leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. While the exact cause of these cancers is still being investigated, the presence of toxic dust and debris and carcinogenic smoke are believed to be major factors.
Because some types of cancers take more time than others to manifest and reveal themselves in the body, cases of cancers such as mesothelioma have only just started to be diagnosed. Unfortunately, medical experts expect to see more and more of these cases in the coming years.
Health Care Available to 9/11 Victims
The link between 9/11 and cancer is a serious issue that continues to affect those who were present at Ground Zero on 9/11 and the months following. It is clear that those affected by the 9/11 attacks are at an increased risk of developing cancer.
Fortunately, the WTCHP is available to provide medical treatment and monitoring for those affected. Administered by the Center for Disease Control, this program provides free medical care to those who were exposed to the toxic dust and debris from the terrorist attacks, including those who lived, worked, or went to school in the area.
The program provides both physical and mental health services for those affected by the attacks. Whether or not you have symptoms, if you were in lower Manhattan between September 11, 2001, and May 2002, it is important to register with the WTCHP to ensure your future healthcare needs are covered.
Being part of the WTCHP gives you a tremendous support network that provides medical monitoring. In addition, participation in the WTCHP is also required to be eligible for compensation from the VCFD. This gives survivors and responders a better chance of catching cancer early, leading to better treatment options and more positive survival outcomes.
How a 9/11 Attorney Can Help File Your WTCHP Claim
A 9/11 attorney can help you gather all the documentation and contact information you will need to file claims with the WTCHP and VCF, as well as represent you in any disputes or appeals.
Having an experienced 9/11 attorney by your side throughout the process to ensure nothing is missed can make a significant difference in the final amount of the award you are granted. If you or a loved one was affected by the 9/11 attacks, contact one of the dedicated 9/11 attorneys today to get the support you need and the compensation you deserve.
This article was written for WHN by the Outreach Team at Hansen & Rosasco, LLP to increase awareness of the link between cancer and 9/11. Hansen & Rosasco have over 20 years of experience and have helped over 3,000 victims. Their team of legal professionals has the experience and information that can help take the stress and confusion out of obtaining medical treatment, monitoring, and compensation for 9/11-related illnesses. Hansen & Rosasco have helped numerous New Yorkers, first responders, and families get the benefits and compensations they deserve.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement.
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References/Sources/Materials provided by:
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2012-09-12/pdf/2012-22304.pdf
Health Effects of 9/11 Still Plague Responders and Survivors | Scientific American
Health impacts on first responders of 9/11 linger 20 years later | UCLA Health
https://www.cdc.gov/wtc/conditions.html
