Increased childhood cancer risk linked to toxic exposure
Experts still don’t fully understand what causes childhood cancer, but, research shows that genetic and environmental factors like chemicals or polluted air might play a role.
The tragic events of 9/11 released a massive cloud of hazardous dust into the air, exposing people in the area to a dangerous mix of toxins. Children who were present near Ground Zero breathed in this polluted air. They potentially inhaled substances like asbestos, lead, and other toxic chemicals. As these children grow older, there's a growing worry about the lasting impact of this exposure, especially the risk of developing childhood cancers. Some specific types of cancer that may be linked to 9/11 exposure include:
- leukemia
- lymphoma
- melanoma
- brain cancer
- kidney cancer
- spinal cord cancer
- liver cancer
- bone cancer
- sarcoma
Common childhood cancer symptoms include:
- unexplained lumps or swelling
- persistent pain
- unexplained fever
- weight loss
- changes in bowel or bladder habits
- frequent infections
- easy bruising or bleeding
- pale skin
- headaches, vomiting, or vision problems
9/11 Victim Compensation Fund payout for childhood cancer
The compensation for 9/11-related childhood cancer is calculated by considering both economic and non-economic losses. These factors include:
- lost earnings
- medical cost
- pain
- suffering
The average payout for such cases may amount to $250,000, but individual awards can vary based on the extent of the illness.