Barasch & McGarry Recognizes Liver Cancer Awareness Month

October is Liver Cancer Awareness Month. 

Both first responders and people who worked, lived, or studied in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11 have a higher risk of developing many severe respiratory illnesses and 69 different types of cancer from exposure to Ground Zero toxins, including liver cancer.

Barasch & McGarry represents more than 300 members of the 9/11 community who have been diagnosed with liver cancer.

In 2024, an estimated 28,000 men and 13,630 women will be diagnosed with liver cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

The major risk factors for liver cancer are male sex, Asian American and Pacific Islander ancestry, chronic viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, certain inherited metabolic diseases, heavy alcohol use, tobacco use, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and exposure to toxic chemicals such as Ground Zero toxins. 

Symptoms of liver cancer include unintentional weight loss, lack of appetite, feeling full after a small meal, nausea or vomiting, increased size of the liver or spleen, abdominal pain, swelling in the abdomen, itching, and jaundice.

Remember that if you are diagnosed with a 9/11-related 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 liver 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.

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.

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.