The Lingering Impact of 9/11: Understanding the 9/11 Disease and its Effects on First Responders
The 9/11 terrorist attacks were devastating to the United States. Besides the loss of life and destruction of property, the event left a more insidious legacy – 9/11 disease.
After the attack, emergency responders worked tirelessly to save lives, while the rest of the nation watched. However, as the dust cleared, the aftermath began to show deadly consequences for many of these brave men and women.
What is 9/11 Disease?
9/11 disease is not one disease but a group of illnesses that first responders contracted from the toxic dust and debris during the rescue and recovery efforts. While there are no specific names given to these illnesses, most first responders refer to it as “9/11 disease.”
Recent studies have shown that those who provided assistance and rescue efforts during the recovery and cleanup of the Twin Towers site had an increased risk of developing health conditions. These responders are also more likely to develop chronic diseases such as cancer, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases.
How Does 9/11 Disease Impact First Responders?
First responders exposed to 9/11 toxic dust face long-term health problems such as cancers like lung cancer, leukemias, and lymphomas. In addition, respiratory diseases like asthma and sarcoidosis, gastrointestinal disorders are some of the most common illnesses related to 9/11 disease.
The health problems associated with the 9/11 disease are not limited to respiratory and digestive. Mental health issues are prevalent for first responders who took part in rescue work after the two towers fell. According to a report in The New England Journal of Medicine, 14% of first responders had PTSD 3 to 4 years after 9/11, and 22% had depression.
What Can be Done to Help First Responders with 9/11 Disease?
First responders are our heroes and deserve access to quality health care. In 2019, Congress passed the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund, but this legislation only goes so far.
Creating awareness, health care screening, and providing access to necessary health care is essential for first responders. Furthermore, research must continue to study the long-term impacts of 9/11 disease to help develop better treatment strategies.
Conclusion
The 9/11 terrorist attacks remain one of the most traumatic events in American history. However, the legacy of 9/11 continues to affect those who took part in the rescue and recovery operations in the aftermath.
It is incumbent upon us as a nation to ensure that First Responders have access to preventive measures, health screenings, and health care services needed to address the impact of 9/11 disease. By investing in long-term support and care, we can ensure that first responders receive the recognition, respect, and support they richly deserve.
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