Three-Fourths of 9/11 FDNY Community Already Have Ground Zero-related Illness

Almost three-fourths of the FDNY personnel who worked at Ground Zero on and after 9/11 have developed a long-term illness related to their exposure to airborne toxic chemicals at the World Trade Center site, according to a recent study. 

Of the 15,200 FDNY firefighters, paramedics, and other workers who were there, at least 11,300 have been certified for an illness by the World Trade Center Health Program.

These illnesses include 68 different types of cancer and many chronic respiratory conditions.

The health program’s report noted that more than 3,000 FDNY personnel have been diagnosed with cancer. 

On 9/11 and in the following months, the air in Lower Manhattan contained ground glass, pulverized concrete, benzene, asbestos, and many other harmful chemicals. It had the same pH as the household cleaner Drano.

As a result, in the months and years after 9/11, many firefighters and other first responders developed the characteristic “World Trade Center cough.”

If you were in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11, you have the right to register with the health program and the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund – even if you are currently healthy.

By registering now, you will have access to health care and compensation for pain and suffering and lost income if you are diagnosed with a Ground Zero-related illness in the future.

To learn more about registering with the health program and the Victim Compensation Fund, call 212-385-8000 or visit 911victims.com today.