Surge in 9/11-Linked Cancers Among Responders

The number of individuals diagnosed with cancers connected to the September 11 attacks has soared to 48,579, marking a 143% rise over five years. The increase is partly due to the aging of responders, most now in their late 50s and 60s, as they become more susceptible to long-term health effects.

The most common cancers include skin, prostate, and breast cancers, with melanoma, lymphoma, leukemia, and cancers of the thyroid, kidney, lung, and bladder also prevalent. These illnesses are believed to result from exposure to toxins at Ground Zero and the nearby Fresh Kills landfill.

Many first responders recall working amid toxic debris without adequate protective gear. One retired officer described debris being bulldozed and sifted through with rakes, with officials insisting the air was safe despite such conditions. Masks issued proved ineffective, turning black within an hour.

Figures show a significant increase in enrollment in the World Trade Center Health Program since 2017, with over 10,000 new members in 2024—the highest in its history. As of March, 8,215 enrollees had died, including 5,844 responders. Currently, 3,767 members who passed away had cancer, exceeding the original death toll from 9/11 itself.

Individuals like Ivonne Sanchez, a 59-year-old EMT, worked continuously on the pile and was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. She insisted on aggressive treatment when her cancer advanced. Similarly, retired NYPD officer Phil Rizzo, who was on the site immediately after the towers fell, was diagnosed with head and neck cancer in 2023.

Many responders express frustration over the ongoing fight for expanded healthcare support. Several plan to visit Washington, D.C., to advocate for increased coverage and funding for 9/11-related health issues. Despite assurances of safety at the time, many now face serious and often life-threatening illnesses linked to their service.