Study Finds Higher Rates of Prostate Cancer Among WTC Responders

New research findings indicate higher rates of prostate cancer among World Trade Center (WTC) respondents compared with those in the New York State Cancer Registry. Studies continue to link WTC-exposure to cancer and other medical conditions, Parker Waichman LLP notes.

Port Washington, United States – December 2, 2016 /PressCable/ —

Parker Waichman LLP, a national law firm that has spent many years fighting to ensure that the heroes and survivors of the September 11th terrorist attacks are never forgotten, comments on a new study showing higher rates of prostate cancer among World Trade Center (WTC) respondents. The study, published in the European Journal of Cancer Prevention, used the WTC Health Program to obtain data on prostate cancer cases from 2002 to 2013. Researchers found a higher incidence of prostate cancer among three WTC respondent cohorts compared to cases in the New York State Cancer Registry from the same time period.

Referring to the elevated rates of prostate cancer, the researchers stated, “It is uncertain whether this increase is because of WTC-related exposures or enhanced surveillance.”

The authors analyzed the cases in terms of age, race, and the Gleason score distribution. The Gleason grading system is used to measure the prognosis of prostate cancer based on samples from a biopsy. Researchers also analyzed the clinical characteristics of prostate cancer cases and adjusted for age, race, and WTC exposure. Overall, responders who were heavily exposed to WTC conditions had more advanced stages of prostate cancer. “WTC respondents continue to have a higher prostate cancer rate compared with New York State as a whole. Respondents with a higher WTC exposure level may have had more advanced clinical stage of prostate cancer,” the study authors wrote.

“This study is only the latest to show that WTC responders have a higher incidence of medical conditions, including cancer,” said Keith Gitman, Managing Attorney at Parker Waichman. “Findings such as this highlight the importance of the Zadroga Act, which provides much needed medical treatment, monitoring, and compensation to injured and sick responders and survivors.”

Parker Waichman comments that 9/11 responders and survivors have a higher rate of medical problems; Zadroga benefits are crucial to the survival and well-being of many individuals and their families. Exposure to 9/11 has, to date, been linked to over 90 health conditions, including 60 types of cancer. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), WTC exposure is associated with elevated rates of respiratory disorders, certain cancers, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and generalized anxiety disorder.

A toxic cloud of dust and debris was released when the Twin Towers fell following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, releasing toxins such as asbestos; pulverized cement; polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs); benzene; dioxin; glass fibers; gypsum; jet fuel; heavy metals, including lead; and other chemicals.

The Zadroga Act was first signed into law in 2011, creating the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). The WTC Health Program provides medical treatment and monitoring to over 73,000 responders and survivors. Studies, such as the one recently published, use data from this program to learn more about the long-term health consequences of WTC exposure. The VCF provides compensation to 9/11 responders, survivors, and their families. In December 2015, after years of effort from 9/11 advocates, including Parker Waichman, the Zadroga Act was reauthorized. Reauthorization provides $3.5 billion to fund the WTC Health program for another 75 years to 2090. The firm is proud to have fought alongside responders, survivors, and advocates to ensure passage of the Zadroga Act and its renewal.

Parker Waichman comments that another recent study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that exposure to WTC dust was associated with symptoms of neuropathy. Neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that may cause tingling, pain, numbness, or weakness, was more common in individuals exposed to the WTC site compared to those who were not. The findings suggest that neuropathy should be added to the list of conditions covered under the Zadroga Act, the authors concluded.

Parker Waichman emphasizes the importance of the VCF and the WTC Health Program and is proud to have fought alongside Ground Zero residents, workers, first responders, and other survivors and advocates to help ensure passage of Zadroga Act amendments. The firm vows to continue its efforts to safeguard those exposed to Ground Zero’s toxic cloud and the trauma of the attacks, and ensure that all deserved Zadroga Act compensation is received. To determine eligibility for compensation under the Act or for assistance with a claim, please visit the Parker Waichman website or call 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636).

For more information, please visit http://www.yourlawyer.com/long-island

Contact Info:
Name: Parker Waichman
Organization: Parker waichman LLP
Address: 6 Harbor Park Drive Port Washington, NY, 11050 United States
Phone: (516) 466-6500

Release ID: 151469