Stronger 9/11 cancer evidence
The ruins of the World Trade Center smolder even a month after the Sept. 11, 2001, attack (Oct. 11, 2001) Credit: AP
New York City firefighters exposed to the dust and debris at Ground Zero are 19 percent more likely to have cancer than those who weren't, according to new research published Thursday. The study isn't conclusive. So for the time being, 9/11 rescue and recovery workers with cancer still won't qualify for federal compensation. But it's a strong piece of evidence for officials to weigh in determining whether to add cancer to the illnesses covered by the $4.3-billion Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. In July, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health decided a link between toxins at the pit and cancer hadn't been scientifically established. The next review is in early 2012. First-responders deserve our gratitude, and also compensation if the fumes made them sick. But taxpayers need to be assured that the link between their service and suffering is real.
