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9/11 toxins: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

9/11 toxins: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons video

The 9/11 terrorist attacks not only destroyed buildings and took lives but also caused massive fires that released toxic fumes into the air. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs, were among the many harmful chemicals that filled the World Trade Center and its surrounding area. PAHs have been linked to various severe health problems, with 17 types of PAHs flagged as particularly harmful to human health. One of the most well-known PAHs is naphthalene, a chemical commonly found in mothballs.

The harmful effects of PAHs affected thousands of people, including first responders, residents, and pregnant women. Its impact on people’s health is long-term, and many victims still suffer from the illnesses brought about by PAHs.

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How exposure to PAHs can lead to serious illnesses

PAHs are absorbed into the body through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Once inside, this toxin can cause mutations that can lead to the development of cancers. As known carcinogens, PAHs pose significant health risks.

A person exposed to high levels of PAHs may experience these long-term health effects:

  • Cataracts
  • Skin irritation
  • Decreased immune function
  • Kidney and liver damage

A study on PAHs and their impacts on a person’s health discussed how the toxic chemical can also cause the following illnesses:

  • Asthma
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as thrombosis, atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and high blood pressure
  • Various types of cancer (lung, bladder, skin, kidney, and liver)

In addition to these illnesses, PAHs can also affect women who were or became pregnant during or shortly after the 9/11 attacks. A paper about PAHs published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine pregnancies affected by PAHs can result in various birth results, such as premature delivery and heart defects in newborns.

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File a 9/11 VCF claim for PAH-related health issues with ELG Law

ELG Law has years of experience in handling 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) claims for those affected by toxic exposures, including PAHs. If you have been diagnosed with any of the qualifying diseases related to the 9/11 events or linked to PAHs, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact our skilled lawyers today to determine your eligibility and begin the process of filing a 9/11 VCF claim.

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