Barasch & McGarry to Host Free Webinar in Recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

Anyone who was in Lower Manhattan or after 9/11 has a significantly higher risk of developing many respiratory illnesses and 69 different types of cancer, including skin cancer, as a result of exposure to Ground Zero toxins.

On Wednesday, May 31, at 5:00 p.m., EST, Barasch & McGarry will host a free webinar, Skin Cancer in the 9/11 Community.

The webinar will focus on skin cancer prevention and treatment, as well as how to access resources from the free World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program and the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF).

To RSVP for our free webinar, visit www.911victims.com/skin

Barasch & McGarry represents almost 9,000 members of the 9/11 community who have been diagnosed with skin cancer.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, more than five million Americans are treated for skin cancer every year.

The major risk factors for skin cancer include ultraviolet (UV) light exposure (from sunlight, tanning beds, and sun lamps), moles on the skin, family history, a personal history of skin cancer, a weakened immune system, old age, and exposure to Ground Zero toxins on or after 9/11.

To prevent skin cancer, avoid the sun during the middle of the day, use sunscreen year-round, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning lamps and beds.

If you notice any changes to an existing mole on your skin or a new pigmented or unusual-looking growth on your skin, contact your primary health care provider immediately.

All 9/11 first responders and survivors should have an annual skin exam, because skin cancers are the most common cancers among the 9/11 community.

If you are diagnosed with 9/11-related skin cancer, your family medical history and pre-existing conditions will not affect your eligibility for free health care or compensation. 

If you were there in Lower Manhattan, the government presumes your cancer was the result of exposure to Ground Zero toxins.

If you are diagnosed with skin cancer or any other 9/11-related cancers or respiratory illnesses, Barasch & McGarry can help you access resources through the free WTC Health Program and the 9/11 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.

For the WTC Health Program, the exposure zone consists of all of Manhattan below Houston Street and parts of Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO in Brooklyn.

For the 9/11 VCF, the exposure zone includes the area of Manhattan south of Canal Street and west of Clinton Street.

If you were exposed to Ground Zero toxins, you should know your health status. 

An early diagnosis could save your life.

Barasch & McGarry, Lawyers for the 9/11 Community, represents more than 35,000 members of the 9/11 community.

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