Multiple Myeloma in World Trade Center Responders: A Case Series

Abstract

In this case series, we observe an unusual number of MM cases in WTC responders under 45 years. This finding underscores the importance of maintaining surveillance for cancer and other emerging diseases in this highly exposed population.

Proteomic Characterization of the World Trade Center dust-activated mdig and c-myc signaling circuit linked to multiple myeloma

“…By studying cancer incidence rate among workers of rescue, recovery, reconstruction, and volunteers who were exposed to the heavy dust cloud at Ground Zero and registered in the New York/New Jersey consortium of the WTC Medical Monitoring and Treatment Program (MMTP), Moline et al . noted 8 cases of MM, four of them were younger than 45 years4. This observation was supported by another longitudinal study of 55,778 New York State residents, which revealed excess incidence in responders for MM5.…”

“…1A). Since concerns had been arisen about the potential for increased risk of MM among WTC responders45, we also investigated the capability of WTC dust on the induction of mdig in normal B cells using a B cell line C5B7. Similar to what we observed in BEAS-2B cells, we noted a dose-dependent induction of mdig protein and mRNA by WTC dust in C5B7 cells (Fig.…”

“…A study by Moline et al 4. suggested an increased incidence rate and early onset of MM among the first responders who exposed to the WTC dust.…”

“…Several earlier studies suggested that environmental exposures to industrial or agricultural products, such as benzene, petroleum products, and pesticides, may contribute to the development of MM23. Some recent cohort studies on the first responders, reconstruction workers and volunteers of the World Trade Center (WTC) after terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, provided evidence linking inhalation of the WTC dust to MM and other types of malignancy456. However, there are no studies revealing whether WTC dust is potentially carcinogenic, and if so, how WTC dust causes malignant transformation of the mature plasma B cells.…”

Early assessment of cancer outcomes in New York City firefighters after the 9/11 attacks: an observational cohort study

“…So far, only one study investigating WTC-related cancer has described eight cases of multiple myeloma in WTC responders, but uncertainty related to the definition of exposure and the exact population at risk limit the generalisability of its conclusions. 2 Our study is a preliminary effort to examine incidence of cancers occurring within the first 7 years after 9/11 in a cohort of nearly 10 000 male firefighters with known health information before 9/11 and minimal loss to follow-up.…”