9/11 Stomach Cancer (Gastric Cancer) | VCF

9/11 Stomach Cancer Compensation Claims

Stomach and gastric cancer is one of over 70 types of cancer that have been certified by the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) as a 9/11-related condition. Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, several 9/11-related health conditions have developed in those present at the crash sites, including various types of gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, esophageal cancer, colon cancer, and gastric and stomach cancer.

The WTCHP, created by the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, provides medical treatment and monitoring to individuals who were exposed to the aftermath of 9/11. Financial compensation is also available for those who have developed a 9/11-certified health condition such as stomach cancer. 9/11 cancer compensation claims are handled through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) and are awarded for both economic and noneconomic losses related to 9/11 exposure.

The Link Between 9/11 and Stomach Cancer

When the Twin Towers collapsed, a cloud of dust and debris was released that covered Manhattan and the surrounding area for several months afterward. Commonly referred to as 9/11 dust, this toxic cloud contained a dangerous mix of asbestos, lead, glass fibers, and heavy metals. Many of these harmful substances are known carcinogens and other toxins that have been implicated in various types of cancer, including stomach cancer. An increased risk of developing stomach cancer has been definitively linked to 9/11 exposure, leading the WTCHP to classify stomach cancer as a certified 9/11-related cancer.

Common Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer rarely causes symptoms in the early stages, underscoring the importance or regular screening for those with higher risk factors, such as those present in the aftermath of 9/11. When signs and symptoms of stomach cancer do occur, they include poor appetite, weight loss, heartburn or indigestion, nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, discomfort in the abdomen, feeling full after eating only a small amount, swelling in the abdomen, blood in the stool, feeling tired or weak, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. Due to the nonspecific nature of these symptoms, it is recommended for those who were present in the exposure zones to register with the WTCHP for regular cancer screenings.

How to Know if You Qualify For Stomach Cancer Compensation From 9/11 Exposure

The VCF was created to provide financial compensation to those who suffered loss from the terrorist attacks. Eligibility for compensation from the VCF for stomach cancer depends on several factors. These include:

Registering and filing a claim with the VCF by the applicable deadlines;
Providing evidence of the 9/11-related illness;
Showing proof of presence in the Exposure Zone between September 11, 2001 and May 30, 2002, along the routes of debris removal, or at one of the other crash sites, including the Pentagon site or the Shanksville, Pennsylvania site; and
Registering with the WTCHP by the deadline to have the cancer certified as a 9/11-related health condition.

Stomach Cancer Treatment Options Through the WTC Health Program

The WTC Health Program provides comprehensive health care for 9/11-related health conditions, including stomach cancer. The type of treatment will depend on the stage and location of the cancer. The best approach for stomach cancer treatment may involve a combination of more than one type of treatment, including the following:

Surgery: If the cancer has not spread to other parts of the body, surgery will likely be part of the treatment and offers the best hope for curing stomach cancer. Surgery may be done to remove the cancer entirely, or, if the cancer has spread too much, palliative surgery may be done to help prevent bleeding from the tumor or prevent the stomach from being blocked by tumor growth.
Chemotherapy: Special medicine is used to shrink or kill the cancer. These may be pills taken orally or may be given intravenously. Chemotherapy may be used as the primary treatment, or may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor or remove any remaining cancer.
Targeted therapy: Drug treatments target specific weaknesses in cancer cells to destroy them or slow their growth. These can be used alone or with chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy involves the use of medicine to help a person's immune system locate and destroy cancer cells more effectively
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy utilizes high-energy rays or particles to destroy cancer cells in specific parts of the body. Radiation therapy may be used alone or may be used before or after surgery, often with chemotherapy.

Support Resources for Stomach Cancer Patients

In addition to medical treatment and monitoring through the WTCHP, and financial compensation through the VCF, a range of support resources is available for individuals diagnosed with stomach cancer. Support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs can provide the necessary help and comfort to 9/11 stomach cancer patients during this difficult time. Engaging with these resources can offer a sense of community and support, helping patients and their families navigate the journey ahead. The following resources are a great place to begin looking for support:

Hope for Stomach Cancer: Provides a range of resources including stomach cancer care packages, peer support groups with guest surgeons and a GI oncologist as moderator, financial assistance, online educational webinars, and virtual yoga and mental health sessions (for women only).
No Stomach for Cancer: Provides a worldwide network for patients, their families, and the medical community to connect and share resources for diagnosis, treatment, emotional support, and research, including one-on-one professional counseling and peer support groups.
Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Dedicated to raising awareness about stomach cancer, advancing funding for research, and providing education and support internationally to patients, families, and caregivers.

Contact Our 9/11 Attorneys Today To See If You’re Eligible for Compensation

Navigating the process of registering with WTCHP, certifying your 9/11-related condition, and filing claims for compensation with the VCF can be daunting, especially when dealing with a cancer diagnosis. At Hansen and Rosasco, LLP, our team of experienced 9/11 attorneys is here to guide you on this journey. We can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible and the necessary medical care you deserve. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with stomach cancer after exposure to 9/11 dust, contact us today for a free consultation to find out if you’re eligible for financial compensation and no-cost medical care.

“My husband died as a result of cancer. This firm was able to help me obtain the compensation I deserve for me and my two minor children. I had no idea we were entitled to that high of a compensation and this firm really worked hard for us! We will always be thankful.” -Gina E.

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Stomach Cancer (Gastric Cancer)