Barasch & McGarry Remembers Blood Cancer Awareness Month

September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month, focusing attention on two types of cancer that impact the 9/11 community, leukemia and lymphoma.

Leukemia affects the blood and bone marrow, while lymphomas mainly affect the lymph nodes.

In 2021, an estimated 61,090 new cases of all types of leukemia and 90,390 new cases of all types of lymphoma will be diagnosed in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society.

The major risk factors for leukemia and lymphoma include smoking, family history, rare genetic syndromes, autoimmune disease, a history of radiation therapy or chemotherapy, and exposure to carcinogens such as those present at Ground Zero following the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center.

Some of the common symptoms of lymphoma are enlarged lymph nodes, fatigue, and weight loss.

Leukemia symptoms could include fatigue, weight loss, frequent infections, and easy bleeding or bruising.

Early detection of both leukemia and lymphoma can substantially improve the likelihood of survival.

If you have a higher risk of blood cancer as a result of your exposure to Ground Zero toxins in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11, share this information with your primary health care provider and stay alert to the symptoms.

If you are diagnosed with blood 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.