Barasch & McGarry Recognizes Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month 2024

March is Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month.

Anyone exposed to toxins near Ground Zero in Lower Manhattan, at the Pentagon, or by the Flight 93 crash site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, on or after 9/11 has a much higher risk of many respiratory illnesses and 69 different types of cancer, including multiple myeloma.

With multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and block healthy blood cells. Rather than produce helpful antibodies, the cancer cells produce abnormal proteins that could lead to complications.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 35,780 new cases of multiple myeloma will be diagnosed in 2024.

Barasch & McGarry represents more than 400 9/11 responders and survivors who have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma.

Major risk factors for multiple myeloma include old age, male gender, family history, obesity, having other plasma cell diseases, and exposure to toxins on or after 9/11.

The most common symptoms of multiple myeloma are bone pain, especially in the spine or chest, nausea, constipation, loss of appetite, mental fogginess or confusion, fatigue, frequent infections, weight loss, weakness or numbness in the legs, and excessive thirst.

If you are diagnosed with multiple myeloma 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.

Your family medical history and pre-existing conditions will not affect your eligibility for free health care or compensation. 

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 VCF or enroll in the WTC 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 nearly 40,000 members of the 9/11 community.