Barasch & McGarry Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October 4, 2024 | Michael Barasch
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Studies show that both women and men who were first responders or who were working, living, or studying in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11 have a higher risk of developing 69 different types of cancer from exposure to Ground Zero toxins, including breast cancer.
Barasch & McGarry represents more than 2,700 members of the 9/11 community who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
In the general population, about 1 in 8 women and 1 in 833 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes, according to the American Cancer Society.
But among 9/11 first responders and survivors, the rates of breast cancer are dramatically higher.
In 2024, an estimated 310,720 women and 2,790 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
The major risk factors for breast cancer are family history, genetic predisposition, smoking, drinking alcohol, a prior history of breast cancer, and exposure to toxic chemicals such as Ground Zero toxins.
Symptoms include a new lump in the breast or underarm, thickening or swelling of part of the breast, irritation or dimpling of breast skin, pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area, nipple discharge other than breast milk, any change in the size or the shape of the breast, or pain in any area of the breast.
If you are diagnosed with breast cancer or any other 9/11-related cancers or respiratory illnesses, Barasch & McGarry can help you access resources through the free World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program and the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF).
The health program provides comprehensive medical care to 9/11 victims for their 9/11-related illnesses.
The victim fund offers tax-free awards for pain and suffering, lost earnings, and benefits for surviving spouses and family members.
Your family medical history and pre-existing conditions will not affect your eligibility for free health care or compensation.
For the health program, the exposure zone consists of all of Manhattan below Houston Street and parts of Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO in Brooklyn.
For the compensation fund, the exposure zone includes the area of Manhattan south of Canal Street and west of Clinton Street.
Early detection could save your life. Protect yourself and your family.
Barasch & McGarry can help you register with the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund or enroll in the World Trade Center Health Program. Please contact us by visiting 911victims.com or calling 212-385-8000.
If you prefer to register or enroll directly with the 9/11 VCF or the WTC Health Program, visit vcf.gov or cdc.gov/wtc.
Barasch & McGarry, Lawyers for the 9/11 Community, represents more than 40,000 9/11 responders and survivors.
Visit 911victims.com or call 212-385-8000 today.