The Ongoing Cost of 9/11 - New Cancer Cases and Deaths – Two Decades Later

The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, changed the course of American history, but the impact did not end with the immediate destruction and loss of life. In the months and years following the attacks on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, thousands of first responders, recovery workers, and downtown Manhattan workers, residents, and students were exposed to toxic dust and debris, leading to a wide range of serious health issues. More than two decades later, the death toll from 9/11 continues to rise and now far outnumbers the number of deaths on that day, as cancers, respiratory diseases, digestive issues, and mental health conditions linked to the attacks emerge. 

9/11's Cancer and Death Toll Continues to Rise

Nearly 3,000 lives were lost on the day of the attacks. The true death toll of 9/11 continues to rise – the toxic exposure at Ground Zero has led to an increased risk of developing over 70 types of cancer, respiratory diseases, digestive disorders, and other serious health issues among first responders and individuals who were exposed. Even more grim, according to the WTC Health Program, more than 3,000 people have died from a 9/11-related cancer or other illness, surpassing the number killed on the day of the attacks.

Programs like the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) have been critical in providing support, but the physical and emotional toll of the event remains a heavy burden for many individuals who were exposed in the aftermath of 9/11. The continued cost of 9/11 is not only measured in lives lost on that day, but also in the ongoing health struggles faced by those who survived.

In the months following the 9/11 attacks, over 500,000 people, including downtown workers, residents, students, first responders, and others, were exposed to high levels of toxic dust and hazardous materials, leading to cancer and other long-term health effects more than 20 years later. 

Firefighters and police officers who served in the aftermath of the attacks have faced higher rates of cancer and respiratory diseases. In the years following 9/11, the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) have reported increased cases of lung disease, heart problems, and mental health disorders linked to the toxic dust and stress experienced during rescue and recovery efforts.

The downtown civilian population – the area workers, residents, students, and others – all breathed the same toxic air as the 9/11 first responders. These civilians, like the responders,  experience much higher rates of 9/11-related cancers and other illnesses. 

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) established the World Trade Center Health Program to provide medical monitoring and treatment for 9/11-related health conditions, in addition to conducting research on the health effects of 9/11 exposure, and tracking 9/11-related illnesses. The WTCHP’s most recent statistics report that over 132,000 individuals have enrolled in the WTC Health Program, and hundreds continue to enroll each month. These statistics highlight the importance for those who were present during 9/11 to seek ongoing health screening. 

Some 9/11 Cancers Take Years to Develop 

While some post-9/11 health issues were almost immediately apparent (especially the breathing and digestive disorders), others, such as over 70+ types of cancer, have taken longer to develop, and are now being newly diagnosed. Certain cancers related to 9/11 exposure have long latency periods, meaning they may take years or even decades to develop. Mesothelioma, lung cancer, and certain blood cancers are now being diagnosed at higher rates among 9/11 first responders and individuals (such as the civilians in the area) present in the aftermath of 9/11. This trend is expected to continue as more people who were exposed to the dust and debris at Ground Zero reach the window where these diseases typically appear.

Understanding Lingering Health Effects of 9/11

Beyond cancer, the health impacts of 9/11 exposure include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other disorders. Mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety have also been widely reported among those who lived or worked near Ground Zero. The lingering health effects of 9/11 can range from manageable conditions to life-threatening and life-altering diseases. 

Continued Support is Available for Those Impacted by 9/11

The WTC Health Program provides free medical monitoring and treatment for eligible 9/11 first responders, cleanup workers, and NYC residents, workers, and students. This includes coverage for more than 100 certified 9/11-related health conditions, including dozens of types of cancer and most respiratory and digestive diseases. Counseling and mental health support are also available for those dealing with the emotional toll of 9/11.

In addition to the WTCHP, the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) offers financial compensation for those suffering from a 9/11-related cancer or other health issues. In 2019, the VCF was reauthorized to provide continued support through 2090. Anyone who has been diagnosed with a 9/11-related illness in the past 20+ years is encouraged to register with the VCF to protect their right to compensation. Compensation may cover economic losses such as lost wages and benefits, out-of-pocket medical expenses, and non-economic losses such as pain and suffering.

Reach Out to a 9/11 Attorney to Learn More

Navigating the complex process of applying for benefits through the WTCHP and the VCF can be challenging. An experienced 9/11 attorney can help eligible parties understand their rights, gather necessary medical documentation, and file claims to ensure they receive the support and compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has experienced health issues linked to 9/11, reaching out to a 9/11 attorney can help secure the care and financial assistance needed to manage ongoing health challenges. Contact the dedicated attorneys at Hansen & Rosasco, LLP today to find out more about your eligibility for health monitoring and treatment and financial compensation.