9/11-Related Breast Cancer and Treatment through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to highlight the risks of 9/11-related breast cancer. Breast cancer is a growing concern for many in the 9/11 community who were exposed to toxic substances following the terrorist attacks. Unfortunately, since 2001 Hansen & Rosasco has helped hundreds of 9/11 breast cancer victims. Our office recently won a $3.4 million plus award for a female downtown Manhattan executive disabled by breast cancer after having a radical mastectomy, chemo, radiation and lymphedema complications.  

While breast cancer is more commonly associated with women (1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives), both men and women present in lower Manhattan on or after September 11, 2001, may be at risk due to exposure to carcinogenic dust and chemicals and we have also handled cases for men. Men rarely get annual mammograms or recognize the early symptoms, often leading to male delayed diagnosis and poorer long term outcomes. Early detection is critical for both women and men and better health outcomes, and regular screenings, such as mammograms, are essential to monitor any potential risks.

The Link Between 9/11 and Breast Cancer

The collapse of the World Trade Center (WTC) released a hazardous cloud of dust, debris, and toxic chemicals, including asbestos, jet fuel, pulverized concrete, and glass. All these toxins burned at Ground Zero for months after 9/11 engulfing lower Manhattan. Exposure to these substances has been linked to various health conditions, including 9/11-related breast cancer. Researchers have identified a higher incidence of breast cancer among individuals exposed to this toxic environment, which underscores the importance of regular screenings for early detection. Female breast cancer is now the third most common cancer certified by the WTCHP​.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

9/11 Breast cancer symptoms may vary, but common signs include:

• A lump or mass in the breast or underarm area
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the breast skin
• Nipple discharge, especially if clear or bloody
• Redness, scaling, or persistent pain in the breast

It is vital for anyone exposed to 9/11 toxins to remain vigilant about changes in their breast health and pursue regular mammograms as recommended.

How Can the World Trade Center Health Program Help?

The World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program provides screenings and treatment for health conditions, including breast cancer, related to the September 11th terrorist attacks. Breast cancer screening may be available as a part of the health monitoring exam. You do NOT have to be “certified” for breast cancer in order to receive free mammogram screening. You only need to be enrolled in the World Trade Center Health Program. Enrollment in the WTCHP is the key to free lifetime healthcare for all 9/11 related healthcare, including over 68 types of cancers.  Hansen & Rosasco has three dedicated paralegals on our team who do nothing but help our clients with enrollment in the World Trade Center Health Program.

What Breast Cancer Screening Tests Can I Receive Through the WTC Health Program?

If you are between the ages of 40 and 74, you may receive a free digital mammogram once every other year. You will be exposed to a small amount of radiation during a mammogram, but for most women the benefits of screening outweigh this low risk. Talk to your WTC Health Program provider if you are concerned or have other questions about the procedure.

What Happens If There Is a Finding During My Screening Mammogram? 

Your doctor will explain what this result may mean for future testing and possible treatment. The WTC Health Program will cover indicated follow up and/or diagnostic tests if you have an abnormal screening. The WTC Health Program will also cover your treatment if the cancer is determined to be related to the September 11th terrorist attacks. You may choose to have screening mammograms through your private physician. However, the WTC Health Program can only pay for care provided through the Program.

What Types of Findings on a Screening Mammogram Require Further Evaluation of Treatment Through the World Trade Center Health Program?

A mammogram can reveal several findings that may warrant further evaluation or treatment under the WTC Health Program. Some common 9/11 breast cancer findings  include:

• Calcifications
  • Microcalcifications: Tiny calcium deposits that may appear in clusters. If their pattern looks suspicious, a biopsy may be needed to rule out cancer.
• Masses or Lumps
  • Masses detected on a mammogram could be cysts, benign tumors , or malignant tumors. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, might be ordered to further evaluate these masses.
• Asymmetry
  • Asymmetrical tissue density in one breast compared to the other can sometimes indicate a developing issue. If new or changing asymmetry is found, more tests might be needed.
    
• Dense Breast Tissue
  • Dense breast tissue can obscure cancer on a mammogram, making it harder to detect abnormalities. In these cases, other imaging techniques such as ultrasound or MRI may be recommended.

If the radiologist identifies any suspicious findings, additional testing is often required. This might include diagnostic mammography, ultrasound, or core needle biopsy to confirm whether cancer is present​.

Compensation for Breast Cancer Cases Through the VCF

The Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) provides financial relief to individuals diagnosed with breast cancer linked to 9/11 exposure. Compensation covers both economic and non-economic losses.

• Economic loss includes coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral services if necessary. “Economic Loss” damages can result in awards over $3.4 million in certain cases, similar to the award Hansen & Rosasco obtained for one of its clients.
• Non-economic loss provides compensation for pain and suffering, physical impairment, and diminished quality of life. Awards for 9/11 breast  cancer cases are typically $250,000, even if you have not lost significant time from work or are disabled. In some instances, individuals with multiple eligible cancers or severe co-existing conditions may receive non-economic awards of up to $340,000​.

How Hansen & Rosasco Can Help with 9/11 Breast Cancer Claims

Navigating the complexities of the World Trade Center Health Program and the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund can be challenging, especially while managing a breast cancer diagnosis. An experienced 9/11 attorney can provide vital support by helping gather all your medical records, proving your  ”presence” in the “9/11 NYC Exposure Zone”  and ensuring accurate claim submissions.  We can help you get enrolled in the WTC Health Program on a timely basis so you can start receiving free medical care as soon as possible. This will also speed up your receipt of your monetary 9/11 compensation award. According to the VCF’s 2023 Annual Report, 86% of VCF claimants are represented by attorneys, highlighting the benefits of professional legal guidance in these cases​.

Hansen & Rosasco has been representing 9/11 victims since 2001 (now over 23 years) . We are one of the most experienced 9/11 law firms based in New York City with offices in both lower Manhattan and Staten Island. We also have an office on Long Island. We are not like out- of- state law firms who have no real connection or dedication to the 9/11 community. We have been with you from the beginning and are proud to be by your side every step of the way. 

Take Action Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer following exposure to 9/11 toxins, it is essential to take action promptly. Prompt enrollment with the World Trade Center Health Program is essential to receiving free lifetime medical care.The VCF has a claim filing deadline extending to October 1, 2090, ensuring that those affected have access to long-term support.

Contact the legal team at Hansen & Rosasco, LLP to learn more about your eligibility for medical care and compensation through the WTCHP and VCF. With experienced professionals by your side,we will deal with the government so you can concentrate on your health..