9/11 responders & survivors face a high risk for developing thyroid cancer in their lifetime. The Zadroga Act provides those with a cancer diagnosis to get free medical care and thyroid cancer compensation through the VCF. Start your claim today.
9/11 Thyroid Cancer VCF Claims
The September 11th terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center's (WTC) resulted in widespread environmental exposure to known and suspected carcinogens for both first responders and survivors.
According to recent studies, exposure to toxic dust and debris on 9/11 and the months that followed has proven to increase the risk of thyroid cancer and more than 60 different types of cancer and illnesses for first responders, rescue and recovery workers, residents of Downtown Manhattan and other WTC survivors.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with 9/11-related thyroid cancer, or another type of illness you may be eligible for tax-free compensation from the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF).
Billions of dollars have already been awarded to those whose health has been impacted by 9/11, including over 1,000 WTC survivors and responders diagnosed with thyroid cancer, but the time limit to file a claim is quickly approaching.
Trying to complete a VCF claim yourself can be overwhelming and frustrating.
Some people have found they're not able to get the time off from work, or find that making sense of the application is too much hassle without help. Errors, incomplete documentation, or missed deadlines can delay your claim and may even result in denial. Let our experienced 9/11 attorneys help.
Cannata, Hendele & Cannata have helped clients recover more than $300 Million in compensation, including 9/11 cancer payouts for thyroid cancer, from the WTC Victim Compensation Fund. Our WTC lawyers are standing by, ready to answer any question you may have about the fund, your eligibility, available benefits, or next steps in the VCF claim filing process.
For more information about VCF thyroid cancer claims, please contact the experienced 9/11 lawyers at Cannata, Hendele & Cannata.
Call 1-888-982-8428 or complete our online contact form today.
What is thyroid cancer?
Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that starts when cells begin to grow out of control in the thyroid gland, a hormone-producing organ located at the base of the neck that helps regulate the body's overall functioning, including metabolic rate, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.
Among others, common symptoms of thyroid cancer may include swelling or pain in the neck, trouble swallowing or breathing, a physical lump, or constant cough. It can be challenging to recognize a thyroid cancer symptom since these symptoms can be associated with other illnesses or benign ailments.
Medical testing, such as a biopsy of the thyroid gland or ultrasound, may be necessary to diagnose thyroid cancer and distinguish it from benign illnesses.
The three primary categories of thyroid cancer are:
- Differentiated (including papillary (PTC), follicular, and Hürthle cell)
- Medullary
- Anaplastic (an aggressive cancer)
Differentiated thyroid cancers generally have good prognoses and don’t spread as quickly to other parts of the body. Patients with differentiated 9/11 thyroid cancers often have a great prognosis when treated.
Unfortunately, while less common, the prognosis for medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancers is often grim.
According to the American Thyroid Associates, anaplastic thyroid cancer is the most advanced and aggressive form of thyroid cancer and can spread quickly and severely. Sadly, the 5-five year survival rate for patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer is only 31%.
If you have concerning signs or symptoms, see your family doctor first. If your doctor suspects you may have a thyroid problem, you may be referred to an endocrinologist, a doctor who specializes in the endocrine system.
Treatment options for WTC survivors with thyroid cancer
Treatment options for thyroid cancer depend on the type and stage of your thyroid cancer, your overall health, and your preferences. Fortunately, according to the Mayo Clinic, "most thyroid cancers can be cured with treatment."
Treatment for thyroid cancers can range from surgery, thyroid hormone therapy, radioactive iodine treatment, targeted therapy, external radiation therapy, chemotherapy, supportive (palliative) care, and more.
Get 9/11 thyroid cancer compensation from the Victim Compensation Fund
A recent study published in the JNCI Cancer Spectrum found that September 11th general responders are twice as likely to be diagnosed with thyroid cancer compared to the general population.
The September 11th Victim Compensation Fund provides two types of payouts to responders and survivors who are diagnosed with a certified thyroid cancer, compensation for economic losses and non-economic loss.
Learn more here: How Much Am I Eligible to Be Awarded
Economic loss
Economic losses can include lost income, employment benefits, burial costs (if deceased), and past medical bills. The VCF may review documentation from third parties to determine the measure of any applicable economic losses.
Non-economic loss
Compensation for non-economic loss is generally based on the severity of your condition and what that has done to your life.
In addition to economic compensation, non-economic elements are awarded for damages that can include lost enjoyment of daily life; inconvenience stemming from necessary treatments or surgical procedures; physical limitations; and mental anguish.
As a general rule, the VCF Act establishes a cap on non-economic awards for 9/11-related thyroid cancer conditions at $250,000.
However, in certain cases that involve a diagnosis of multiple types of cancer, or multiple other factors, the Special Master may determine that an award over this limit is warranted.
Contact a VCF lawyer today to discuss your 9/11 thyroid cancer claim
A thyroid cancer diagnosis can be scary. It's understandable if you feel unsure of what steps to take next.
The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund was established to provide support to responders and survivors whose health has suffered due to toxic exposure from the September 11th attacks.
VCF awards have changed the lives of many victims of 9/11.
With the help of our experienced WTC lawyers, you will get support every step of the way – from filing a VCF claim to receiving a 9/11 thyroid cancer payout.
We have recovered more than $300 Million for responders and survivors that have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer or another qualifying condition, including skin cancer, lymphoma, kidney cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, and related illnesses.
If you have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer or other related conditions, and have questions about receiving lifetime medical care or seeking VCF award the experienced 9/11 lawyers at Cannata, Hendele & Cannata can help.
Your lawyer consultation is free. Our 9/11 lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that we only get paid if you do.
For more information about your WTC VCF eligibility or 9/11 thyroid cancer benefits, please call 1-888-982-8428 or complete our online contact form today.
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