Thousands of responders and survivors have developed various types of cancer as a result of inhaling the carcinogens in the toxic dust cloud that covered lower Manhattan in the immediate aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Significantly, colon cancer is listed among the top ten forms of cancer diagnosed in those who were present in the NYC Exposure Zone. If you are an eligible responder or survivor who developed 9/11 colon cancer — or if you have a loved one who passed away due to the condition — you may be entitled to receive a monetary award from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.
What is 9/11 Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer is a form of cancer that begins as a growth in the inner lining of the colon. This is the longest part of the intestine and the last part of the digestive system. Specifically, most forms of colon cancer are classified as adenocarcinomas, or cancers that form in the cells that make mucus and fluids. Less common types of colon cancer can include carcinoid tumors, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, lymphomas, and sarcomas.
Symptoms of 9/11 colon cancer can include:
- A change in bowel habits
- Diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling that the bowel does not empty
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal aches or cramps that do not go away
- Blood in the stool
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Importantly, the WTC Health Program offers eligible responders and survivors three types of screening for 9/11 colon cancer. Initial testing involves checking to see whether there are small amounts of blood in the stool. The second test examines the inside of the lower colon and rectum. With the third test, doctors conduct a colonoscopy to examine the entire colon.
While there are pros and cons to each form of testing, all three tests are effective in detecting colon cancer early. Your doctor can recommend the best screening procedure based on your circumstances. Treatment can depend on the stage of cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body — it may include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, ablation, and radiation therapy. If found early, the prognosis for 9/11 colon cancer is typically good.
VCF Compensation for 9/11 Colon Cancer
Colon cancer can significantly impact a person’s life and livelihood. The VCF recognizes the toll that this form of cancer can take on a responder or survivor and their family. Those who satisfy the VCF’s eligibility criteria may be eligible to receive compensation for the economic and non-economic losses they have incurred due to a colon cancer diagnosis.
An economic loss from the VCF can include compensation for the monetary losses suffered as a result of a 9/11 colon cancer diagnosis. These may include loss of earnings, employment benefits, out-of-pocket medical expenses, and replacement services loss. A non-economic loss award is meant to compensate for the physical pain and mental anguish suffered in connection with the condition.
Pursuant to the Zadroga Act, the highest allowable amount in non-economic loss that can be awarded is $250,000 for a cancer condition, based on the severity of the condition. In limited cases involving multiple forms of cancer or several severe health conditions, the Special Master may exceed the statutory cap to issue an award of up to $340,000.
If a victim passes away due to a 9/11 cancer condition, their loved ones may be entitled to receive compensation for the costs of a memorial service and burial by filing a deceased claim. The spouse and dependents may also be able to recover $250,000 on behalf of the victim and $100,000 each for the loss of their loved one.
Contact an Experienced New York City 9/11 VCF Attorney
If you have been diagnosed with 9/11 colon cancer, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable VCF attorney by your side who can help you navigate the process of filing a claim and ensure you obtain the monetary award to which you’re entitled. The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund attorneys at The Dearie Law Firm, P.C., have represented claimants and their families in 9/11 VCF claims for over a decade. For a free consultation, contact us today.