First responders at the World Trade Center (WTC) after the 9/11 attacks will now be able to receive treatment for more than 50 types of cancer through the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.
The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health announced on September 10 that 50 types of cancer will be added to the list of September 11-related illnesses covered by the federal WTC Health Program.
Originally, cancer was not covered by the $4.2 billion program because there was little scientific research linking the inhalation and ingestion of the dust from the fires and building collapses with the development of cancer.
But now nearly 60 types of cancer have been added to the list of covered illnesses, including malignant neoplasms of the following:
- Lip, tongue, salivary gland, oral cavity, pharynx, oropharynx, and hypopharynx
- Nasopharynx
- Nose, nasal cavity, middle ear, and accessory sinuses
- Larynx
- Esophagus
- Trachea, bronchus, and lung
- Eye and orbit
- Thyroid
- Blood and lymphoid tissues
A new rule adding these and numerous other cancers to the Zadroga Act is expected to be published September 12 in the Federal Register and will take effect 30 days later.
"The publication of this final rule marks an important step in the effort to provide needed treatment and care to 9/11 responders and survivors through the WTC Health Program," said John Howard, MD, administrator of the program, in a statement on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. "The original list of WTC-related health conditions that was established by the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010 did not include cancers, but allowed for the opportunity to add other health conditions over time."
