New York, NY – Senator
Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement in response to a new report
today which shows four 9-11 responders under the age of 45 have been diagnosed
with multiple myeloma, a form of cancer:
“No one could have imagined the long lasting harm that the aftermath of the
9-11 terrorist attacks would have on the health and well being of thousands of
first responders and innocent men, women, and children in New York. The report
released today is yet another stark reminder that there is a lot of work left
to do in providing long-term monitoring and treatment for those exposed to the
World Trade Center site. We have an undeniable moral obligation to help the
heroes of 9-11 and all others exposed, and I will continue to work with my
colleagues in Congress to pass legislation that will provide resources for the
care and close monitoring needed to address their health challenges.”
The Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine released a report today
showing that four responders under 45 were diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a
cancer of the immune system. This type of cancer is commonly a disease of
the elderly.
In June, Senator Gillibrand introduced the James Zadroga 9-11 Health and
Compensation Act. This legislation, co-sponsored by Senators Charles E.
Schumer, Frank R. Lautenberg, and Robert Menendez, would provide treatment and
long-term monitoring and for those who face health effects from exposure to the
World Trade Center site in the aftermath of the 9-11 terrorist attacks.