The 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC) resulted in a toxic fallout that contained a mixture of pulverized concrete, asbestos, glass fibers, and other hazardous substances that had the potential to cause serious health problems, including eye-related issues. In the aftermath of this tragedy, many first responders and downtown NYC workers, residents, and students have faced an increased risk of developing cancers of the eye and orbit due to their exposure to the toxins that were in the air until mid-2002. Suppose you or a loved one worked, lived, or went to school in lower Manhattan on 9/11 or the many months afterward and have developed eye or orbit cancer as a result of 9/11 exposure. In that case, you may be entitled to financial compensation and lifetime free medical monitoring and treatment.
How the Dust From 9/11 Impacted Eye Health…Even to This Day
The dust and debris resulting from the collapse of the World Trade Center (WTC) towers created a toxic environment fraught with high levels of particulate matter, toxins, and chemicals. This hazardous mixture had serious consequences for the respiratory system and overall health of first responders, survivors, and residents who were present in the vicinity of Ground Zero. The eyes were also particularly vulnerable to the effects of this airborne contamination, as the fine particles in the dust could easily enter the eyes, leading to various eye-related issues.
Common Eye Issues Due to Exposure During 9/11
The exposure to the toxic dust from the 9/11 attacks has been linked to several common eye issues that continue to affect the downtown workers, residents, students, and first responders, even to this day. These eye conditions include:
- Eye and Orbital Cancer: Cancerous tumors can develop in sites within the eyes and surrounding structures. Many 9/11 survivors and first responders have since developed cancers of the eye and orbit. Prolonged exposure to certain carcinogens can contribute to the risk of developing cancers including eye and orbital cancer.
- Conjunctivitis: Also known as “pink eye,” conjunctivitis is a common inflammatory condition that causes redness, itchiness, and discharge from the eyes. The irritants present in the dust could trigger or exacerbate this condition.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: The particulate matter and chemicals in the dust can disrupt the tear film that lubricates the eyes, leading to dryness, irritation, and a gritty sensation. Prolonged exposure to these irritants can contribute to chronic dry eye syndrome.
- Corneal Abrasions: The presence of foreign objects in the dust increases the risk of corneal abrasions. These occur when the surface of the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, is scratched or injured. Corneal abrasions can cause pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.
- Allergic Reactions: The dust from the 9/11 attacks contained numerous allergens that could trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. These allergic reactions often manifest as redness, itching, tearing, and swelling of the eyes.
Your Options For Care
Vision is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. If you have experienced eye-related issues as a result of exposure during the 9/11 attacks, it is crucial to seek appropriate care to address your condition. For those who were exposed to the 9/11 terrorist attacks and subsequently developed eye conditions or orbital cancers, treatment options are available, including free lifetime treatment through the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP).
The WTCHP is a federal program, established by the Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010, that provides monitoring and treatment services for responders and workers, residents, and students who were present in the New York City disaster area (anywhere in lower Manhattan south of Canal Street). If you were exposed to the 9/11 attacks and you have since developed an eye condition or eye cancer, you may be eligible for monitoring and treatment through the WTCHP.
Eye cancer treatment often involves a multifaceted approach. Generally, the initial line of treatment involves chemotherapy or radiation therapy, both of which work by eliminating cancer cells. However, some eye tumors can grow rapidly, necessitating more aggressive treatment methods. In such cases, surgery may be required to remove the tumor or the affected portion of the eye. Depending on the tumor’s size, and whether the cancer has invaded surrounding tissues – such as the eyelid, muscles, and nerves – surgery may be required.
As always, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare team to understand the best options for your specific situation. The WTCHP can help survivors and responders of the 9/11 attacks access necessary treatments and resources, offering a pathway to manage and navigate these complex health issues. An experienced 9/11 attorney can help you navigate this system.
Financial Assistance Through the Victim Compensation Fund
For affected individuals who were present in the New York City exposure zone during the 9/11 attacks, and who have subsequently developed eye conditions, there are financial compensation options available, as well. The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) was established to provide compensation to individuals or relatives of deceased individuals who were injured or died as a result of the 9/11 terrorist attacks or recovery efforts. This fund includes compensation for physical harm, including eye conditions and cancer, and economic loss related to the 9/11 attacks.
The VCF works alongside the WTCHP to determine eligibility based on medical conditions related to 9/11 exposure. If the WTCHP certifies your health condition, the VCF can then determine your eligibility for compensation.
It’s important to note that the VCF operates separately from the WTCHP and has its own registration and claim filing deadlines. Therefore, obtaining certification from the WTCHP does not automatically register a claim or preserve your right to file a claim with the VCF. If you are eligible, compensation from the VCF can help cover medical expenses, loss of wages and benefits, and other damages.
Help is Available
No one should have to suffer alone, especially when help is available. If you or a loved one has encountered eye health complications associated with 9/11, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our experienced 9/11 attorneys are dedicated to ensuring that every 9/11 survivor and responder gets the medical treatment and compensation they deserve. Contact us today, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Image Source:
Image 1, 2 – Image created by Safe and Healthy Life Team
