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WON VCF AWARD FOR A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER
Our WTC lawyers won a $1.15 million VCF award for a volunteer firefighter and truck driver who was disabled by thyroid cancer, prostate cancer, urinary incontinence, impotence, extrinsic asthma, and secondary diabetes.
Common Causes and Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer starts in the thyroid gland, which is near the “Adam’s apple” in the neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones that travel through the blood to all parts of the body and regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight. Thyroid hormones also affect one’s metabolism rate, which determines how fast or slow the brain, heart, muscles, liver, and other parts of the body work.
Thyroid cancer is caused by a mutation in the cells of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck. The exact cause of this mutation is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by exposure to radiation, certain chemicals, and other environmental factors, and the CDC has determined it can be “certified” as a 9/11 related covered condition. Common symptoms of thyroid cancer include a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty breathing or swallowing, persistent hoarseness or other voice changes, a constant cough that is not caused by a cold, and recurrent pain in the neck or throat.
The Link Between 9/11 and Thyroid Cancer
The toxins released during the collapse of the World Trade Center towers, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and asbestos, are known to increase the risk of cancer and may have played a role in the development of cancer in those exposed to the hazardous materials. The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) has recognized the link between 9/11 exposure and thyroid cancer, and victims of the attacks who have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer may be eligible for compensation and no-cost medical monitoring and treatment.
How to Know if You Qualify For Thyroid Cancer Compensation From 9/11 Exposure
If you were exposed to the toxins released on or after the 9/11 attacks, you may be eligible for compensation through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTC Health Program). To qualify, you must have a valid 9/11 related illness and have been present in the affected areas of Lower Manhattan, Staten Island, or the Pentagon, or have worked in the area on 9/11 or for the months thereafter. If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to your illness.
Our 9/11 attorneys can help you register with the VCF; file a claim and provide evidence of your diagnosis and medical records; and proof of your presence at the attack sites or exposure to the dust, debris, or smoke from the attacks. If approved, you may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with your illness.
Thyroid Cancer Treatment Options Through the WTC Health Program
The World Trade Center Health Program provides free healthcare at top medical centers for those who were exposed to the toxins released on and after 9/11. Thyroid cancer treatment may consist of a variety of treatments including surgery, radioactive iodine treatment, thyroid hormone therapy, external beam radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and/or targeted therapy (including Kinase inhibitors and anti-angiogenesis drugs). Based on the type and stage of thyroid cancer, it’s important to speak with your healthcare professional to know which treatment is recommended. The American Cancer Society has broken down these types and stages of thyroid cancer and the associated treatment plan. Additionally, there are clinical trials of newer treatments available as an option.
Speak With a 9/11 Attorney to See if You're Eligible For Compensation and Free Lifetime Healthcare
If you or a loved one were exposed to the toxins released on 9/11 or the months thereafter, you may be eligible for substantial compensation from the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. It’s important to speak with an experienced 9/11 attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights and eligibility and to fight for the compensation you are entitled to. Additionally, there are a number of support resources available to those living with thyroid cancer, so never hesitate to reach out for help.
If you are suffering from a 9/11 thyroid cancer diagnosis or another related cancer or condition and have questions about lifetime medical care or receiving a VCF award, please contact our 9/11 WTC lawyers at Hansen & Rosasco, LLP. We have been representing 9/11 victims and families for over 21 years. We can answer all of your 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund questions. Please call us at 212-697-3701 or fill out a contact form for a FREE claim evaluation
Support Resources for Thyroid Cancer Patients
Our 9/11 lawyers know just how important it is for each first responder or survivor (Downtown Manhattan residents, workers, or students) to get support every step of the way – from filing a claim to receiving free healthcare and a VCF payment.
In addition to the medical services provided by the World Trade Center Health Program, there are a number of support resources available to those living with thyroid cancer. Organizations such as the Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association and the National Cancer Institute offer support, resources, and information to those affected by the disease.
