Are Construction Materials Responsible for 9/11 Cancers?

In a new report compiled by the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health, 9/11 emergency responders were asked about health conditions they face because of the attacks. The report was released only weeks after the Dust Lady, also known as Marcy Borders, passed away from stomach cancer.

According to a doctor who was interviewed for the report, the most common serious health conditions among 9/11 responders are head, neck and thyroid cancers. Other workers were affected by health conditions such as asthma and Barrett’s Esophagus. A retired police officer present during the attacks claims he does not know of any other first responder who does not have some sort of health condition.

Of the 72,395 first responders and survivors of 9/11, 33,000 have at least one condition as a result of the attacks. In the last year, there have been 2,500 cancer cases associated with 9/11 responders. The report argues more police officers have died from 9/11-related illnesses than from the day of the attacks.

Which Construction Materials Might be Responsible for 9/11 Cancers?

Why are 9/11 responders more likely to develop cancers and other serious health conditions? Asbestos, jet fuel, mercury, fiberglass, and benzene were all present in the debris and dust during 9/11. According to the National Resources Defense Council, it took 300 to 400 tons of asbestos to finish the construction of the Twin Towers.

Congress set up the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act after an NYPD officer died of a fatal respiratory disease. Under the act, and depending on the condition, first responders can receive treatments for health problems. However, there is speculation funding will not be renewed for the act this year.

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