The Importance of Continued Cancer Screenings for 9/11 Victims

Cancer is one of the most common of these health risks for anyone who lived, worked, or went to school in lower Manhattan (south of Canal Street) between 9/11 and May 30, 2002. Over 35,000 cancer cases have been certified by the WTC Health Program to date, including 68 types of cancer such as skin cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, and colon cancer. Many of the cancers related to 9/11 have long latency periods (the time from exposure to a toxin until the time a cancer or other condition develops) and may not show up for many years after exposure to toxic pollutants. This makes continued 9/11 cancer screenings an essential practice for 9/11 victims to ensure early detection and timely treatment.

The Decades-Long-Lasting Effects of 9/11

Studies by the Centers for Disease Control and other public health organizations show that certain health conditions, such as various types of cancer, have been diagnosed at higher rates in 9/11 first responders and victims compared to the general population. Although 2,974 people lost their lives on the day of the attacks at the World Trade Center site, more people have now died from toxic exposure than on the day of the attacks, according to the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). The New York Fire Department recently hit a grim milestone: in the years that have passed since the attacks, just as many New York Fire Department employees have died from WTC-related illnesses as died on the day of the attacks at ground zero. These statistics underscore the lasting effects of 9/11 and the necessity of ongoing health monitoring, particularly cancer screenings, for 9/11 responders and survivors.

9/11 Cancers Can Develop Late

Cancers associated with 9/11 exposure can develop many years after exposure to harmful substances. This includes mesothelioma and other respiratory cancers. For example, the first 9/11 survivor to die from mesothelioma was Deborah Reeve, who died in 2006, and the second survivor to die from mesothelioma was Nick Ursta, who passed away in 2020. The federal government has acknowledged this long latency period of 9/11 cancers by passing the Never Forget the Heroes, James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alvarez Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act, which extends the VCF’s claim filing deadline to October 1, 2090, and appropriates such funds as may be necessary to pay all eligible VCF claims.

Screenings Are Available Through the World Trade Center Health Program

The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP), part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is a dedicated resource for 9/11 area residents, workers, students as well as all first responders. Created by the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, the WTCHP offers a no-cost comprehensive medical monitoring and treatment program for physical and mental health conditions for those who were exposed. This includes cancer screenings that are tailored to the types of exposures that occurred in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. These screenings are a critical component of health care for 9/11 victims, designed to catch potential problems early when they're most treatable. Whether you are currently in good health or you are suffering from 9/11-related health conditions, the WTCHP recommends that 9/11 survivors and responders register with the program immediately for a health screening.

Help with Enrolling in the WTCHP

Registering for the WTCHP involves a series of steps that are necessary to establish eligibility for monitoring and/or treatment services. This process requires attention to detail to ensure that every aspect of the application is accurately completed. The support of an attorney who is well-versed in the intricacies of the WTCHP can be invaluable during this time. They can assist with gathering and submitting the appropriate documentation, navigating the registration deadlines, and addressing any questions that arise throughout the process.

An attorney's role becomes particularly crucial when considering the individual nuances of each case. Every survivor’s situation is unique, with different exposures, health conditions, and personal circumstances that must be thoroughly documented and presented. Legal guidance ensures that these factors are properly represented in the WTCHP registration. By partnering with a seasoned attorney, 9/11 survivors, and responders can approach the WTCHP registration with confidence, knowing that your application is handled with the utmost care and professionalism necessary to get you the support you need.

Protect Yourself with WTCHP Cancer Screenings

For 9/11 victims, regular 9/11 cancer screenings are a necessary part of health monitoring to ensure early detection of WTC-related illnesses such as cancer. The experienced 9/11 attorneys at Hansen & Rosasco, LLP understand the complexities of 9/11-related health issues and are dedicated to assisting victims in accessing the WTCHP services. By reaching out to us, you can take a step toward protecting your health. Don't wait until symptoms appear; contact Hansen & Rosasco, LLP today and ensure that you're screened, protected, and prepared for whatever the future may hold.