Study: Paresthesias, Nerve Problems Linked to WTC Toxic Dust

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y., Feb. 20, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Parker Waichman LLP, a national law firm that has long fought for the heroes and survivors of the September 11^th terrorist attacks, comments that new research has emerged on WTC exposure. A February 2017, Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine study tied WTC exposure to paresthesias, a nerve-related issue causing burning or prickling sensations, including tingling, numbness, skin crawling, or itching that affects hands, arms, legs, or feet. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?cmd=historysearch&querykey=1)

Researchers note several conditions may cause paresthesias, including exposure to neurotoxins and believe the WTC dust contained neurotoxins that may damage nerve cells. Parker Waichman notes that the toxic cloud contained asbestos; pulverized cement; polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs); benzene; dioxin; glass fibers; gypsum; jet fuel; and heavy metals. Over 90 health conditions, including 60 cancers, have been linked to WTC-exposure. Responders and survivors may receive benefits through the Zadroga Act's two programs: the WTC Health Program and the September 11^th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF).

Researchers analyzed data from 3,141 patients registered with the WTC Environmental Health Center and found that, seven to 15 years after the attacks, 56 percent reported paresthesias at enrollment. According to the researchers, "This study suggests that paresthesias were commonly associated with WTC-related exposures or post-WTC cleaning work," the authors concluded.

Parker Waichman notes this is not the only study linking WTC exposure to neurological symptoms. In January 2016, research published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that neuropathic symptoms were more severe in WTC-exposed individuals. Authors suggested that, "As neuropathy treatment in responders is currently not covered under the WTC program, our findings have strong policy implications and suggest that neuropathy should be added to the list of conditions covered." (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26618530)

"These types of studies are crucial to demonstrating chronic and severe health conditions associated with WTC's toxic cloud," said Keith Gitman, Managing Attorney at Parker Waichman. "We thank Dr. Wilkenfeld and his colleagues for their tireless efforts researching neurological conditions in 9/11 responders and survivors."

Parker Waichman emphasizes the importance of the Zadroga programs and vows to continue its efforts to safeguard those exposed to the WTC attack and toxic cloud. To determine eligibility under the Act, please visit the Parker Waichman's website or call 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636). (http://www.yourlawyer.com/topics/overview/zadroga-act-wtc-world-trade-center-claims-lawyer-attorney-lawsuit)

SOURCE Parker Waichman LLP