Barasch & McGarry Recognizes Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.

If you were a first responder at Ground Zero or working, living, or studying in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11, you have a higher risk of developing respiratory illnesses and 68 different types of cancer presumed linked to Ground Zero toxins, including pancreatic cancer.

Barasch & McGarry represents numerous 9/11 community members who have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

According to a report from the American Cancer Society, an estimated 60,430 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2021.

The major risk factors for pancreatic cancer are age (more common in older adults), gender (men have a higher risk), family history, inherited genetic syndromes, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, smoking tobacco, and exposure to toxic chemicals such as Ground Zero toxins.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can include jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), abdominal pain, weight loss and poor appetite, nausea and vomiting.

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.  

If you are diagnosed with pancreatic 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.