New Study Shows 9/11 First Responders at Increased Risk for Dementia Before Age 65

BREAKING NEWS: New Study Shows 9/11 First Responders at Increased Risk for Dementia Before Age 65

On June 12th a new study conducted at the World Trade Center Health Program at Stony Brook University was published showing an increased risk of dementia in 9/11 responders before the age of 65. 

Fox5 News broadcasted an extensive report yesterday detailing the findings and interviewing the lead researcher, Benjamin Luft, MD. (see video here), and Newsday today published an extensive article on the increased risk of dementia among 9/11 responders also. This study confirms reports from our own clients about increased cognitive decline at a young age as a result of exposure to the toxins in and around Ground Zero. Although the study dealt only with first responders, it is likely that the same exposures to survivors throughout lower Manhattan in the months after 9/11 have similar risks.

Unfortunately, at this time, dementia is not a covered condition by the World Trade Center Health Program. However, Hansen & Rosasco will continue to work tirelessly with the leaders of 9/11 Health Watch to get the diagnosis of dementia cover for lifetime medical care.

Evidence that Word Trade Center (WTC) responders during 9/11 and its aftermath have since suffered poorer brain health than others not exposed to WTC toxins has mounted in recent years. A new study led by Stony Brook University researchers that evaluates more than 5,000 WTC responders indicates that those who had more exposures to WTC-related toxins have dementia at a higher rate than other responders with fewer WTC-related toxic exposures.

If cognitive disorders are added to the list of certifiable conditions by the WTC Health Program,  Hansen & Rosasco will be the first to let you know, in addition to what the next steps to take are.