First responders are at a higher risk of liver cancer
Recent findings suggest that first responders who were among the earliest to arrive at Ground Zero are at a higher risk of developing liver cancer compared to those who arrived later to help with rescue efforts. A study conducted by researchers at Mount Sinai analyzed lung scans of responders monitored by the WTC Health Program and found many had developed cancer.
The liver, responsible for detoxifying foreign substances, is often affected by chemical exposure. Following the 9/11 attacks, over 20,000 responders were exposed to dust, airborne particles, and chemicals known to cause liver toxicity. This increases their risk of toxin-associated fatty liver disease, including the most severe form, toxicant-associated steatohepatitis, which can lead to liver failure and cancer. The symptoms of liver cancer include:
- fatigue
- unexplained weight loss
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right abdomen
- nausea and vomiting
- yellowing of the skin and eyes
- swelling of the abdomen
- itchy skin
- dark urine and pale stools
VCF payout for 9/11-linked liver cancer
If you were a first responder or were at the 9/11 attack sites during or after the attacks and have since developed liver cancer, you may be eligible for compensation. The amount of compensation is determined by adding up your non-economic losses (pain) and economic losses (lost wages) and then subtracting any compensation you've already received from other sources.
While the average payout for liver cancer can be around $250,000, the actual amount can vary depending on the severity of your cancer.