Rise in Mesothelioma VCF Cases
In response to the increasing number of mesothelioma cases, the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) has set aside money to provide financial compensation and medical benefits to those affected. Since its inception in 2011, the number of VCF mesothelioma cases has grown steadily, with over 1,600 cases reported as of June 2020. The steady increase is due to the medical fact that certain diseases and cancers, such as mesothelioma, take a long time from the exposure to toxins until the onset of the disease, known as the “latency period.”
Understanding the Mesothelioma Latency Period
A “latency period” is the time between being first exposed to a cancer-causing agent (such as Ground Zero dust and debris) and the diagnosis of an illness, such as a 9/11-related cancer. Mesothelioma has a long latency period, meaning that it can take years for symptoms to manifest after the initial exposure to asbestos. The minimum “latency period” for cases of mesothelioma under the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund is 11 years – but more commonly it is as long as 20 to 30 years later. With the 9/11 attacks taken place over 20 years ago, it is now essential for 9/11 victims and their families to keep an eye out for any potential signs or symptoms of mesothelioma, including getting regular checkups with their primary care doctor or other medical provider.
What the Recent Rise Means for 9/11 Victims
The rise in mesothelioma VCF cases indicates that more and more 9/11 victims are being diagnosed with the disease as time passes and victims are developing or discovering symptoms. This is a heartbreaking development, and it underscores the importance of being aware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to asbestos and being on top of medical screenings.
Diagnosis After Asbestos Exposure
If you or someone you know was exposed to asbestos during the period following 9/11, it is important to be aware of the potential for mesothelioma. Early detection is key to increasing the chances of successful treatment, so be sure to talk to your doctor about any possible symptoms and to schedule regular health screenings. Because mesothelioma shares symptoms with other conditions, it is also critical that you inform your doctor of any asbestos exposure. Symptoms can vary by type of mesothelioma, but include shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal distress, fatigue, dry cough, weight loss, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, fever, muscle weakness, and swelling of the face and arms.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
If mesothelioma is diagnosed, there are a number of treatment options available. Mesothelioma treatments (fully paid for by the WTC Health Program) are available and continue to evolve with the increase in mesothelioma cases. These include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. The best treatment plan will depend on the individual’s condition, so it is important to consult with a qualified doctor to determine the best course of action. Importantly, the WTC Health Program provides free lifetime healthcare for 9/11-related conditions, including mesothelioma, including at world-class medical centers, including in-network coverage at Memorial Sloan Kettering Medical Center.
How Our 9/11 Lawyers Can Help Your Family
The VCF provides financial compensation to victims of mesothelioma and other 9/11-related illnesses. The process of obtaining these benefits, however, can be complicated and time-consuming – including meeting specific deadlines, providing documents of proof, and filing paperwork – especially if you are dealing with a serious illness. If you or a loved one has been affected by mesothelioma, or developed cancer of any kind, after the 9/11 attacks, our 9/11 lawyers can help you navigate the process and make sure that you get the compensation you deserve.
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