Hansen & Rosasco, LLP

In 2012, the World Trade Center Health Program recognized malignant neoplasm of the ovary (ovarian cancer) as a 9/11-caused cancer. While this was a landmark finding, much work remains to be done since ovarian cancer remains one of the most challenging cancers to treat, primarily when it is not detected early. Traditionally, the treatment of ovarian cancer involves a combination of surgery and platinum-based chemotherapy, which often affects healthy cells along with cancerous ones, and leads to adverse side effects among patients with ovarian cancer. Furthermore, outcomes for ovarian cancer cases not detected early have been poor, and most patients treated with chemotherapy go on to develop chemo-resistant ovarian cancer. Recent advancements in research and treatment, including more precise chemotherapies and targeted therapies, are providing new hope for patients, including those with an increased risk of ovarian cancer due to toxic exposure like those present in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks. 

The most common type of ovarian cancer is high-grade serous ovarian adenocarcinoma, accounting for approximately 75% of epithelial ovarian cancers. Clear cell carcinoma is the second most common type of ovarian cancer and is seen in approximately 1 out of 10 women diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancers. Other less common forms of epithelial ovarian cancer include endometrioid adenocarcinoma, mucinous adenocarcinoma, and low-grade serous carcinoma. Other rare types of ovarian cancer include stromal tumors, germ cell tumors, and small cell cancer of the ovary.

Exposure to the hazardous mix of airborne toxins released from the collapse of the World Trade Center (WTC) – just by living or working in lower Manhattan from 2001 through mid-2002 – has led to a range of health conditions. Among the most common of these are aerodigestive disorders – conditions affecting the respiratory and upper digestive tracts. Currently, 9/11 aerodigestive disorders make up the largest category of certified WTC-related conditions, with over 56,000 WTC Health Program members diagnosed with a 9/11 aerodigestive disorder.  

The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) was established by the James Zadroga 9/11 Victim Compensation Act (Zadroga Act) to provide tax-free compensation to people who developed cancer after being exposed to the 9/11 dust between 9/11 and May 30, 2002. If you were present in Lower Manhattan after the attacks and have since received a cancer diagnosis, National Cancer Survivor Month is an excellent time to learn more about how the VCF can support you. 

Navigating the 9/11 VCF appeals process for a denied or unsatisfactory decision from the VCF can be daunting, especially given the short deadline involved. Understanding the appeals process and adopting best practices can significantly improve the outcome of your appeal. When a 9/11 VCF claim is denied or the VCF has made an award that the claimant feels does not fully account for the scope of their losses, this may feel like a huge loss. However, it’s important to remember that this decision is not necessarily a final ruling. The VCF allows claimants to appeal the VCF decision or amend their VCF claim. Here's how you can effectively challenge your VCF decision.

Kidney cancer is one of the more common concerns within the 9/11 community. The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) plays a crucial role in providing both treatment and support to 9/11 victims coping with kidney cancer. The related September 11th Victim Compensation Fund provides financial relief to sufferers of kidney cancer, with pain and suffering awards of up to $250,000 plus lost earnings and other available compensation. 

Anyone who lived, worked, or went to the school in the area in the months after the attacks may be at an increased risk of developing 9/11-related conditions, including liver cancer. With over 35,000 survivors and responders certified by the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) for various types of cancer, it's clear that ongoing support is essential for 9/11 victims and their families coping with liver cancer. This support is provided in the form of medical monitoring and treatment through the WTCHP, and financial compensation through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). 

On September 11, 2001, in addition to the destruction wreaked in Manhattan, the Pentagon was a target of the terrorist attacks, profoundly affecting its workforce. Employees present at the Pentagon during this critical time may be eligible for financial compensation through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). According to the most recent annual report, the VCF has paid over 10 billion dollars in awards since its creation. 

The enactment of the 9/11 NOTICE Act has ushered in a new era of responsibility for businesses in Lower Manhattan, particularly those below Canal Street – the areas polluted by the fallout from the 9/11 attacks. This Act aims to ensure that all potential 9/11 victims are informed of the benefits and compensation available to them. If you receive a notice from your employer under the Notice Act, it is important to not only know what benefits are available but also why you should act now even if you are not sick. 

Published in Newsweek on February 16, 2024

Hundreds of volunteer firefighters rushed to the scene of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001. Unfortunately, many of these volunteer firefighters now endure various health conditions related to their service, including over 69 types of cancer. To support these individuals, specific benefits have been introduced by New York legislation (S1411B- A711B) to provide for volunteer firefighters who have developed cancer as a result of exposure to toxins and carcinogens while in the line of duty. Benefits provided by the New York State Volunteer Firefighter Gap Coverage Cancer Disability Benefits Act became effective January 1, 2019. Depending on individual circumstances, benefits may include a lump sum payment, a disability-based monthly payment, and/or an accidental death benefit for family members. 

At Hansen & Rosasco, LLP, our experienced 9/11 attorneys are dedicated to advocating for the 9/11 community. If you are a 9/11 volunteer firefighter who has developed cancer, we are available to answer your questions regarding the benefits and compensation available to you. We offer comprehensive legal services through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the support and compensation you rightfully deserve.