Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Mesothelioma cases are quickly rising among 9/11 responders, rescue workers, and construction workers that were stationed at the Ground Zero “pile”. Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue that covers most of the internal organs. It is believed that exposure to asbestos from working or living near the disaster site of 9/11 is what’s causing these cancers to develop. Asbestos is a deadly material that consists of microscopic fibers that are resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals. Often used in building, most asbestos was banned by 1990 after health concerns began to rise.

Unfortunately, most of the buildings surrounding Ground Zero, including the Twin Towers, were built prior to the ban on asbestos. Asbestos was used in abundance to fireproof these massive structures. As a result, the air around Ground Zero was full of asbestos, jet fuel, and several other deadly toxins after the 9/11 attacks.

The time period between initial exposure to a cancer-causing agent and the diagnosis of cancer is known as a “latency period”. The minimum latency period for cases under the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund is 11 years, yet health experts have found 20 to 30 years is more realistic as many 9/11-related cancer cases have only just begun to develop.

Treatments for mesothelioma are paid in full by the World Trade Center Health Program. They may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation
• Chemotherapy
• Clinical trials

Slater Slater Schulman LLP is dedicated to the representation of individuals who have been injured or have loved ones who have been injured by exposure from the toxic debris of 9/11. Our firm is handling litigation related to these claims nationwide.

If you or someone you love was diagnosed with 9/11-related mesothelioma, please contact Slater Slater Schulman LLP for a free consultation by filling out the form on this page or by calling our office at (800) 251-6990.