The effects of 9/11 in the health of the American citizens

This year’s September 11 marked the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks in America that changed the course of history forever. More than 3,000 people were killed that day in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania. The health of responders and survivors was also severely affected by harmful chemicals, fumes and dust. Many of these people have also passed away. The World Trade Center Health Program, created exclusively for post-9/11 diseases, has recognized that survivors and responders suffer from asthma, various types of cancer, sleep apnea, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and depression. Of the approximately 107,000 who participate in the program, 65,000 have at least one of the above conditions. More than 23,000 have been diagnosed or are diagnosed with at least one type of cancer. Some have died. Another 46,000 people have also died for other reasons. Note that all of these deaths may not be related to the attacks and their effects. Many argue that the number of deaths from diseases caused is probably higher. What is the appropriate exercise for each type and stage of cancer? For the answer as well as more useful info attend Base Training’s “Exerice and Cancer” seminar. 

The cancers

Researchers have been monitoring the health of 9/11 rescuers for many years to better understand the health risks that have arisen. A 2019 study found that they have an increased risk for certain cancers compared to the general population. The risk is 25% higher for prostate cancer, twice as high for thyroid cancer and 41% higher for leukemia. Two more studies published recently found similar risks. In one study, researchers found that male firefighters who were in ground zero after the 9/11 attacks were 13% more likely to develop cancer than firefighters who were not there. The risk for 9/11 firefighters was also 39% higher for prostate cancer and more than double for thyroid cancer. Another group of researchers found that the risk of prostate cancer was 24% higher for 9/11 rescue workers than for the general population. The highest risk was for those who responded earlier to the site of disaster. Researchers will continue to monitor 9/11 responders for decades to find for changes in their health, some of which may take years to appear (cancers). Other health conditions associated with ground zero exposure may worsen as survivors and rescuers age. For example, lung problems The importance of health programs in the treatment of cancer is enormous. A study conducted last July found that those who participated in the World Trade Center health program were 28% more likely to survive than the general population and 36% less likely to die from other causes. Giota Florou source: healthline.com Recent Articles