A recent study shows a link between 9/11 exposure and breast cancer risk
Breast cancer, the most common type of cancer among the WTC-exposed survivors, accounts for 46% of cases diagnosed in the WTC Environmental Health Center. As per a recent study published in the journal Environmental Epidemiology, exposure to toxic dust at 9/11 WTC attack sites led to increased site-specific DNA methylation changes that contribute to breast cancer. The researchers analyzed 64 DNA methylation profiles of WTC-exposed individuals (32 women who developed breast cancer and 32 cancer-free women) and 32 unexposed women (16 women with prediagnostic breast cancer and 16 cancer-free).
Cancer-related pathways and sites were more commonly detected in WTC-exposed groups than in unexposed participants. Dysregulated genes were also identified in WTC-exposed breast cancer patients, suggesting a link between toxic exposure and the development of breast cancer. Additionally, WTC exposure is likely to compromise the immune system's ability to identify and get rid of cancer cells that contribute to cancer immune evasion.
Survivors with breast cancer related to toxic exposure at the 9/11 attacks are entitled to Victim Compensation Fund claims
In general, WTC-associated breast cancer is more aggressive than those diagnosed in unexposed individuals. During the collapse of the WTC on September 11, 2001, a large group of over 36,000 local rescue workers and 57,000 residents in lower Manhattan were exposed to dust that contained a mixture of carcinogenic materials known to cause breast cancer. It may take about 8 to 15 years for breast cancer to develop after environmental exposure. So, it is necessary to watch out for the following symptoms if you have been exposed to 9/11 terrorist attack fumes:
- A lump or swelling, especially in one of the breasts
- Redness, dimpling, or flaky skin in the nipple area
- Bloody discharge from the nipple
- Changes in breast size, shape, or appearance
- Pain in the breast or armpit
If you notice any of the above changes, make an appointment with your doctor for evaluation, as early diagnosis is the key. If you are a responder or survivor of the 9/11 terrorist attack and have developed breast cancer, you are likely to be eligible for 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund benefits.
9/11 Victim Compensation Fund payout for breast cancer
The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) payout for a 9/11 victim is calculated based on the formula "non-economic loss + economic loss – collateral offsets". Collateral offsets include the compensation received for your injury from other sources. So, if you were present at the 9/11 attack sites during or after the attack, and have been suffering from breast cancer, you are eligible to receive compensation from the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. While the VCF awards up to $250,000 for a 9/11-related breast cancer victim's pain and suffering, the compensation can be higher if the breast cancer is disabling.
