Barasch & McGarry Recognizes Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Women who were first responders or working, living, and studying in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11 have a dramatically higher risk of developing respiratory illnesses and 68 different types of cancer from their exposure to World Trade Center (WTC) toxins, including ovarian cancer.

Barasch & McGarry represents more than 100 9/11 community members who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

About one in seventy-eight women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer during their lifetime, with higher rates among 9/11 first responders and survivors.

According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 19,880 women in the United States will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2022.

The major risk factors for ovarian cancer are age (more common in older women), family history, obesity, hormone replacement therapy after menopause, a history of breast cancer, and exposure to toxic chemicals such as Ground Zero toxins.

Early detection can substantially improve the likelihood of survival.

People with a high risk of ovarian cancer should share this information with their primary health care provider and stay alert to the symptoms.  

Common symptoms could include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, trouble eating or feeling full quickly, and urgent or frequent urination. 

If you are diagnosed with ovarian 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 (WTCHP) and the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). 

The health program provides free, 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 includes 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.

Barasch & McGarry, Lawyers for the 9/11 Community, represents more than 30,000 members of the 9/11 community.

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