In 2022 I wrote to you about a groundbreaking research development I had been involved in to help 9/11 first responders. Through the partnership with former Assemblyman Michael Cusick, we secured $1 million in State funding for a pilot program to test 1,000 blood samples of 9/11 first responders for cancer genomics and identifying precancerous genetic mutations. Over the past 4 years Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Hospital have been working on this state-of-the-art and truly groundbreaking detection of certain mutations that have historically been linked to cancerous cells before they develop into cancer. Meaning, they were looking into ways to detect cancer before it becomes cancer. Last week I met with the team of brilliant doctors in Albany to discuss their findings - and there were some outstanding results!

According to Dr. Amit Verma, Chair of Oncology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, out of the 1,000 blood samples tested, over 130 individuals had markers to indicate precancerous genetic mutations. What is amazing about this is that they do not have cancer or a disease yet, but rather some early indicator that something isn’t right. It is solely through this study that they were able to refer these heroes to early treatment and will likely succeed in nipping their disease(s) in the bud before it ever becomes something serious. In addition, 5 individuals were shown to have cancer, but it was at such an early stage that they had not been diagnosed. They are now all getting treatment! Now, while this is all very preliminary and very early in development, I have to say, how incredible is this? That’s what funding from the NYS Assembly did, and as a community that was dramatically impacted by 9/11, I think we can all join in applauding the work of the brilliant doctors at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Hospital for piloting this research!

The only issue: there are an estimated 2,000 blood samples of 9/11 first responders that have not been tested. That’s why at that moment I fully committed to securing Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Hospital the full $2 million in State funding they need to finish this study. In partnership with Assemblywoman Grace Lee, whose district encompasses Ground Zero, we are going to get this done! According to the experts this research has the possibility of going beyond cancer detection. It was shown that these genetic mutations are also associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, lung disease, and other inflammatory conditions, many of which are already known to be elevated among the World Trade Center-exposed populations. This research also advances the broader field of early cancer detection and prevention. Lessons learned from this study may inform screening strategies for other high-risk populations and contribute to earlier intervention approaches that benefit the public at large - and it’s all being done thanks to the funding from the New York State Assembly!

We all know that scientific evidence continues to demonstrate that World Trade Center-exposed firefighters face significantly increased risks of cancers - that’s why I passed A.7679 (2023) into law to guarantee health insurance protections for firefighters battling thyroid cancer. In addition, the NYS 9/11 Task Force has officially been reassembled through my legislation (A.8417, 2025) and is already meeting on new ways to help survivors. I believe this work is the next step, something New York State must stand up and lead in - and I am determined to carry this across the finish line so every sample can be studied.

As New York approaches the 25th anniversary of September 11^th, the number of first responders losing their lives to cancer continues to grow exponentially. This funding represents a meaningful opportunity to continue honoring our commitment to those who served in the aftermath of the attacks. That’s why I am fighting for the inclusion of this funding in the 2026-2027 State Budget for the purpose of saving and prolonging the lives of our 9/11 heroes.

As the 2026 Budget process begins, I will be sure to keep you all abreast of developments and updates. As always, do not hesitate to contact my office by phone at 718-945-9550 or by email at amatos@nyassembly.gov.