April is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month – Here's What to Know if You Have 9/11-Related Esophageal Cancer

The risk of developing 9/11-related esophageal cancer is significantly higher due to exposure to the toxic dust and debris released after the collapse of the Twin Towers. Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness about one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers. Thousands of individuals breathed in the toxic air that lingered in the air for months after the attacks, and are now at greater risk for developing various types of cancer and other 9/11 related illnesses, including esophageal cancer.

If you’ve been diagnosed with esophageal cancer and were present in the 9/11 Exposure Zone at any time between 9/11 and May 30, 2002, you may qualify for medical benefits and financial compensation through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). Understanding your options for care and compensation is essential in securing the support you need. Here, we discuss the connection between 9/11 and esophageal cancer, available treatment options for esophageal cancer, and how to file for free lifetime 9/11-related medical care through the WTCHP and a $250,000 award from the VCF.

What Gastrointestinal Conditions Are Recognized as Being 9/11-Related?

The toxic dust cloud that blanketed Lower Manhattan after the 9/11 attacks contained hazardous substances, including asbestos, benzene, lead, dioxins, and other known carcinogens. Prolonged exposure to these toxins has been linked to a range of gastrointestinal conditions, including the following, which are all certified by the WTCHP as 9/11-related conditions:

• Esophageal cancer
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Stomach cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Liver cancer

Esophageal cancer is strongly linked to long-term damage caused by GERD, which many 9/11 responders and downtown NYC residents, workers, and students have developed due to inhalation of toxic dust and irritants in the aftermath of 9/11. Chronic acid reflux caused by GERD can damage the lining of the esophagus over time, leading to a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer.

Toxic Dust, the Exposure Zone, and Other 9/11 Cancer Factors

The exposure zone established by the WTCHP includes areas of Lower Manhattan south of Canal Street, as well as parts of Brooklyn that were affected by the dust cloud and debris. Individuals who lived, worked, or attended school in these areas between September 11, 2001 and July 31, 2002 may have been exposed to toxic dust and may qualify for health care and financial compensation.

How Toxic Dust Damaged the Esophagus

The toxic dust cloud created by the collapse of the World Trade Center (WTC) contained particles of glass, cement, heavy metals, and chemicals that were inhaled and ingested by individuals in the exposure zone. These particles caused inflammation and long-term damage to the delicate lining of the esophagus, increasing the risk of chronic irritation and inflammation, GERD, Barrett’s esophagus, and cellular mutations that may lead to cancer. 

9/11 recovery workers were also exposed to carcinogenic chemicals through the cleanup and recovery process, along the routes of debris removal, such as the Fresh Kills Landfill. Prolonged exposure to these hazardous materials further increased the risk of developing esophageal cancer and other gastrointestinal cancers.

Other Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer

Beyond 9/11 exposure, other common risk factors for esophageal cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, poor diet, and exposure to radiation and toxic substances. Individuals with chronic acid reflux or GERD are also at an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. However, it is essential to understand that no matter your personal history or lifestyle activities, there is a proven link between exposure to 9/11 toxic dust and the development of esophageal cancer, provided you meet the exposure criteria. The toxic environment created by the events of 9/11 released a complex mixture of hazardous substances that has been scientifically linked to esophageal cancer in exposed individuals. If you were present in the 9/11 exposure zone and have been diagnosed with esophageal cancer, this exposure is recognized as a primary contributing factor. You may qualify for WTCHP certification and significant financial compensation through the VCF.

Seeking Treatment for Your 9/11-Related Esophageal Cancer

Early diagnosis and treatment of esophageal cancer can significantly improve outcomes. The WTCHP provides free medical care for 9/11-related health conditions, including esophageal cancer. Treatment options for esophageal cancer may include the following:

• Surgery: Removing part or all of the esophagus for localized tumors.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy beams are used to target and kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs used to shrink tumors and prevent cancer from spreading.
• Endoscopic procedures: Minimally invasive alternatives to surgery, available in early-stage cases to remove cancerous tissue.
• Immunotherapy and targeted drug therapy: New treatments that target specific cancer cells and boost the body’s immune response.

If your esophageal cancer is certified by the WTCHP, all necessary treatments, including medications, hospital stays, and follow-up care, are fully covered.

Understanding the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund

The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) was established to provide financial compensation to individuals diagnosed with 9/11-related health conditions, including esophageal cancer. Compensation through the VCF can cover economic and non-economic losses including:

• Out of pocket medical expenses
• Loss of income and benefits due to your illness
• Pain and suffering

To file a claim for compensation with the VCF, you must first have your esophageal cancer certified by the WTCHP. Once certified, you can submit an appeal or amendment if additional expenses or losses arise after your initial claim is approved.

Trust a 9/11 Attorney to Get the Compensation You Deserve

The VCF claims process can be complex, requiring detailed medical records and evidence of 9/11 exposure. An experienced 9/11 attorney can help you gather the necessary documentation and ensure your claim is processed correctly. Common reasons for VCF claim denials include missing medical records, incomplete exposure documentation, and incorrect filing deadlines. An attorney familiar with VCF claims and WTCHP certifications can help you avoid these pitfalls and maximize your financial award.

Consult the Experienced 9/11 Esophageal Cancer Attorneys at Hansen & Rosasco

At Hansen & Rosasco, LLP, we have been representing 9/11 VCF claims since the beginning. Our dedicated legal team understands the complexities of the WTCHP and VCF claims process and will handle every detail of your case, so you can focus on your health and recovery.

We have helped thousands of people present on 9/11 secure the medical care and financial compensation they deserve. If you were present in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, contact Hansen & Rosasco, LLP today for a free consultation. We will guide you through the claims process and fight to secure the maximum compensation available through the VCF.