The Gastrointestinal Effects of 9/11

One of the many concerning effects of the 9/11 terrorist attacks is its impact on the gastrointestinal system. Inhaling or ingesting the substances found in the 9/11 dust can cause a variety of gastrointestinal issues ranging from cancer of the digestive system (including colon and rectum), mouth, tongue, esophageal, and stomach cancer to serious non-cancer conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus and similar conditions. 

Exposure to 9/11 toxins–either by living, working, going to school in Lower Manhattan, or as a 9/11 responder–has been definitively linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer and other gastrointestinal cancers, such as esophageal and pancreatic cancers. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause scarring in the lungs, which can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Asbestos inhalation can also cause mesothelioma, a rare cancer that affects the lining of the abdomen, chest, and other organs.

If you or a family member were a survivor, first responder, resident, or other individual working or studying in the areas of one of the attack sites, and have developed gastrointestinal issues due to exposure to 9/11 toxins, you may be eligible for compensation through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) and for medical monitoring and lifetime health care through the WTC Health Program (WTCHP). 

The Effects of 9/11 Dust Exposure

When the WTC buildings collapsed and during the almost year-long cleanup operations, the combination of jet fuel and building materials led to a long-term cloud of toxic dust, debris, and gas that was inhaled by thousands of people in the surrounding areas through mid-2002. The toxic dust and fumes were a poisonous combination of glass, cement, asbestos, lead, and other hazardous substances, and have been linked to numerous health problems, including gastrointestinal issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease and multiple types of cancer.

In general, the dust exposure caused a plethora of health issues across all body systems, many of which are interconnected. It’s important to understand the overall health effects of the events. One of the most common health effects associated with 9/11 dust exposure is, as would be expected, respiratory illness. People who were exposed to the dust have reported a variety of respiratory issues, including asthma, coughing, and shortness of breath. In addition, some people have reported experiencing sinus and eye irritation, as well as skin reactions. Gastrointestinal issues have been found to come in tandem with WTC cough syndrome. 

The dust has also been linked to an increased risk of developing various cancers. Studies have found that people exposed to the dust have a higher rate of developing certain types of cancer, such as lung, prostate, and thyroid cancer.

The dust can also cause psychological issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People who were exposed to the dust have reported an increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Overall, the dust from the 9/11 attacks has been linked to a variety of serious health issues for both physical and mental health. It is important for people who were exposed to the toxic dust to get regular medical check-ups and to report any health issues to their doctor.

What Digestive Disorders are Associated with 9/11?

In the years since 9/11, there have been thousands of cases of digestive disorders in people who were exposed to the dust created by the attacks. Digestive disorders can range from manageable conditions with only mild symptoms to serious and deadly diseases. These digestive disorders – which are absolutely related to the post-911 dust and fumes – include the following:

1. Esophageal Cancer: Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the esophagus and is often associated with 9/11. Those who were exposed to the dust are more likely to develop this type of cancer. Common symptoms of esophageal cancer include difficulty swallowing, pain in the throat or back, coughing, weight loss, hoarseness, and vomiting. Treatment options for esophageal cancer may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Risk factors for esophageal cancer include smoking, drinking alcohol, being overweight, and having certain medical conditions such as GERD, Barrett's esophagus, and achalasia.
2. Colon Cancer: Colon cancer is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine. It is also associated with 9/11 dust exposure, though the link is still being studied. Symptoms of colon cancer include a change in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, bloody stools, abdominal pain, weight loss, and fatigue. Treatment of colon cancer often involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
3. Stomach and Gastric Cancer: Stomach and gastric cancer are types of cancer that affect the stomach and are also linked to 9/11 dust exposure. Stomach and gastric cancer risk increases with age, with the highest risk occurring in older adults. It is also linked to a number of other factors, such as smoking, a family history of stomach and gastric cancer, and long-term infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori. Symptoms of stomach and gastric cancer can include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, weight loss, and blood in the stool. Treatment options for stomach and gastric cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
4. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter. Those exposed to the dust of 9/11 are more likely to develop GERD. Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and coughing. Treatment for GERD typically includes lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery. Lifestyle changes may include avoiding certain foods and beverages or eating smaller meals. Medications may include antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. Surgery may be needed to repair or replace the lower esophageal sphincter or to widen the esophagus
5. Retroperitoneum and Peritoneum: Retroperitoneum and peritoneum are two types of tissue that line the abdominal cavity. Those exposed to the dust of 9/11 are more likely to develop cancer in these areas. Retroperitoneum is the tissue that lines the organs in the abdominal cavity which are located behind the peritoneum. Examples of organs located in the retroperitoneum are the kidneys, pancreas, aorta, and ureters. The retroperitoneum is made up of connective tissue, fat, and blood vessels. It helps protect these organs from injury. The peritoneum is a membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and organs within it. This tissue is composed of two layers of epithelium and a layer of connective tissue. Its main function is to protect the abdominal organs and keep them in place. It also helps to regulate the temperature of the organs, absorb nutrients, and secrete hormones. Those exposed to the dust of 9/11 are more likely to develop cancer in these areas due to the presence of toxins in the air that can be absorbed through the lining of the peritoneum and retroperitoneum. The toxins can damage the cells of these tissues, increasing the risk of cancer such as mesothelioma and other types of cancer.

The Long-Term Effects of Gastrointestinal Disease

Gastrointestinal diseases caused by 9/11 dust exposure can have long-term effects on a person’s health. These effects can include pain, chronic cough, difficulty with digestion, worsened comorbidities, and more. It is important for those affected by exposure to 9/11 toxins to seek medical attention as soon as possible in order to receive the best care and treatment for their condition.

The long-term effects of gastrointestinal diseases can also include chronic inflammation of the stomach lining, malabsorption of nutrients, and the development of gastrointestinal cancers. Chronic inflammation can cause a person to experience pain, nausea, and vomiting. Malabsorption of nutrients can lead to malnutrition and a weakened immune system. Gastrointestinal cancers can cause a person to suffer from life-threatening complications.

In addition to the physical effects, those affected by 9/11 gastrointestinal disease can also experience emotional and mental health impacts with issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder brought on by the trauma and subsequent health issues. These mental health conditions can be difficult to manage and can require professional help.

It is important that those affected by 9/11 dust exposure receive the proper diagnosis and treatment for their condition. Although some of the long-term effects of gastrointestinal diseases may not be reversible, early detection and treatment can help to minimize the severity of the condition.

Hansen & Rosasco's Experienced 9/11 Lawyers Are Here to Help

If you or a loved one have suffered from the gastrointestinal effects of 9/11, it is important to get the legal help you deserve. At Hansen & Rosasco, LLP, our experienced 9/11 attorneys can help you get the compensation you need to cover medical bills and other expenses related to your injury. Contact us today for a free consultation.