Barasch & McGarry Remembers Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

We are hosting a webinar on October 25 at 5:00 p.m. EST with Dr. Paul Baron, Chief Breast Surgeon of Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Register here: www.911victims.com/breast

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 respiratory illnesses and 68 different types of cancer presumed linked to Ground Zero toxins, including breast cancer.

Barasch & McGarry represents hundreds of 9/11 community members 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 2021, an estimated 281,550 women and 2,650 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. 

Please note that if you are diagnosed with 9/11-related breast cancer, your family medical history does not affect your eligibility for free health care and/or compensation. Your cancer is presumed linked to the toxins.

Early detection through breast self-exams and mammograms can substantially improve the likelihood of survival.

If you are a 9/11 first responder or survivor, share this information with your primary health care provider and stay alert to the symptoms. Also join our webinar on Oct. 25 by registering here: www.911victims.com/breast

A guide from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that symptoms could 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, pain in any area of the breast.

If you are diagnosed with breast cancer or any other 9/11-related cancers or respiratory illnesses, we can help you access resources through the free World Trade Center Health Program and the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. 

Visit 911victims.com or call 212-385-8000 today.