Uterine Cancers Added to World Trade Center Health Program List
Almost 22 years after the September 11, 2001, attacks, the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program has added all types of uterine cancer (https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/updates/upd-01-17-23.html) to its list of WTC-related health conditions. The WTC Health Program assists patients with treatment costs for uterine cancers that meet WTC-related health condition eligibility and certification requirements.
Effective January 18, 2023, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health added all types of uterine cancers (https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/updates/upd-01-17-23.html), including endometrial cancer, to its list of WTC-Related Health Conditions (https://www.cdc.gov/wtc/conditions.html), after the WTC Scientific/Technical Advisory Committee’s review and evaluation of evidence on the relationship between exposure from the September 11, 2001, events and uterine cancer. Eligible program members may also qualify for benefits such as monitoring, certain cancer screenings, and counseling.
“The rule is significant because it provides not only access to lifesaving care and treatment, but also recognition for the women who sacrificed so much on and after 9/11 that their diagnosed uterine cancer is a WTC-related health condition,” John Howard, MD, WTC Health Program administrator, said (https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/updates/upd-01-17-23.html). “This rule eliminates a critical gap in coverage. All types of cancer, if determined to be related to 9/11 exposures, are now covered by the WTC Health Program, providing patients with equal access to the treatment they deserve.”
"I'm grateful the WTC Health Program has added all types of uterine cancer to its list of WTC-related health conditions,” Congressional Representative Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), said (https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-wtc-health-program-adding-uterine-cancer-list-covered-health). “This will ensure survivors and heroic first responders receive the care and treatment they need for uterine cancer without cost-sharing. Although we certainly can never fully repay our nation's deep gratitude to those who bravely responded during one of our nation's darkest hours, I'm relieved the WTC Health Program will now cover all types of cancer.”
Lack of access to quality care (https://www.ons.org/make-difference/ons-center-advocacy-and-health-policy/position-statements/access-quality-cancer) affects health and cancer care on various levels. Advocate for research and policies that promote easier access to care for all patients, especially those who could be at risk for certain types of cancers such as members of the WTC Health Program.