The number of New York City Fire Department (FDNY) members who have died from illnesses linked to 9/11 now exceeds the number who were killed in the attack itself.
While 343 FDNY members lost their lives in the immediate aftermath of the attacks, more than 370 have since died from illnesses caused by exposure to toxic substances at Ground Zero, according to the FDNY.
This shift in numbers highlights the long-term health consequences of the toxic dust and debris released when the World Trade Center towers collapsed. First responders, cleanup crews, and nearby residents have faced serious long-term health challenges in the years following 9/11.
Toxics at Ground Zero
After the collapse of the World Trade Center, the air was filled with toxic dust made up of harmful substances such as asbestos, lead, mercury, and other chemicals.
An estimated 400,000 people were exposed to these toxins in the days, weeks, and months following the attack, according to the CDC.
These exposures have been linked to various health problems, including:
- Cancers: First responders and survivors have been diagnosed with cancers like lung, thyroid, esophageal, and blood cancers. For instance, FDNY members continue to die from cancer-related illnesses, with one recent victim succumbing to terminal cancer less than a year after being diagnosed.
- Respiratory Illnesses: Chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other lung conditions have been common among those exposed.
- Other Health Conditions: Exposure to the toxins at Ground Zero has also led to other serious conditions, including gastrointestinal diseases, heart problems, and mental health challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The Numbers: A Growing Death Toll
Since the attacks, the number of deaths related to 9/11 illnesses has steadily increased, and not just among the fire department.
More than 377 NYPD officers have died from 9/11-related illnesses, a number that far surpasses the 23 officers who died on the day of the attacks.
The FBI has also seen similar losses, with 27 employees dying from health complications related to 9/11 exposure.
In total, more than 4,343 people have been confirmed to have died from illnesses linked to 9/11 toxic exposures, compared to the 2,977 who died on the day of the attacks themselves.
These numbers reflect a health crisis that continues to grow, even as we approach the 23rd anniversary of the attacks.
Victims Still Struggle to Get Financial & Medical Support
It appears federal programs that provide medical care and financial compensation to 9/11 survivors are struggling to keep up with demand.
The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (which Jon Stewart famously fought so hard to get approved) has awarded $12.8 billion to over 56,600 claimants since 2011. However, the fund has faced challenges, nearly running out of money in 2019 before Congress extended it through 2092.
The World Trade Center Health Program, which provides medical monitoring and treatment to more than 132,000 first responders and survivors, is facing its own financial struggles. The program, originally set to expire in 2090, is expected to experience a funding shortfall by 2028.
Andrew Ansbro, the President of the FDNY Uniformed Firefighters Association, said that lawmakers “habitually seem to underestimate” the number of people who join the program.
In response, lawmakers are pushing for the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2024 (introduced this past July), which would make funding for the program permanent.
What You Can Do
As the health consequences of 9/11 continue to unfold, there are several ways you can help:
- Support Legislation: Contact your elected officials to advocate for the passage of the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act of 2024. This bill would secure permanent funding for the World Trade Center Health Program, ensuring that first responders and survivors continue to receive the care they need.
- Donate: Consider donating to organizations that support 9/11 first responders and survivors, such as the FealGood Foundation or the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation. These organizations provide financial and emotional support to those affected by 9/11.
- Raise Awareness: One of the concerns raised by advocates of the Correction Act is that as more time goes by, it will fade from our collective memory. (After all, the FDNY will soon be hiring people born after September 11, 2001!) So simply sharing the stories of 9/11 first responders and survivors on social media or through your community to keep the public informed about the ongoing health crisis. The more people who are aware, the more pressure there will be on lawmakers to continue supporting those affected.
With more people now dying from 9/11 toxin-related illnesses than the attacks themselves, continued support is critical to ensure that those affected receive the care and compensation they deserve.