The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center Recognizes The 7th Anniversary Of the September 11th Attacks

As we reflect on the unbelievable events of September 11, 2001, it is important to reflect on the many heroic individuals who responded to the attacks, including firefighters, police personnel, ambulance crews, and the many volunteers who risked their own lives to potentially save the lives of others without a second thought. The thousands of Americans who lost their lives on September 11^th, 2001 are not forgotten, and neither are their loved ones and friends, who will continue to mourn the abrupt loss of the people that they cared for most.

The effects of September 11^th, 2001 are ongoing, and as we look back and remember that tragic day, we must also look forward. It is important to acknowledge the continued health implications caused by asbestos dust at the attack site, as exposure to asbestos is the conclusive cause of malignant mesothelioma, a fatal type of cancer that has affected hundreds of individuals who were exposed at the World Trade Center and Pentagon attack sites seven years ago.

The World Trade Center buildings were constructed prior to the institution of asbestos-usage regulations by the federal government, and dangerous amounts of asbestos insulation could be found inside the structures, The damage to the towers caused by collapse and fire resulted in the release of asbestos fibers and dust, which were inhaled by firefighters, police, emergency medical technicians, volunteers, and individuals who were near to the site. In addition, asbestos dust was inhaled by residents living miles away, as the fibers and dust particles traveled via wind currents. Those who inhaled asbestos dust and fibers seven years ago may be at risk of developing mesothelioma cancer because asbestos fibers can cling to the lining of the body’s internal organs (most generally the lungs) for decades before an individual may begin to suffer from the symptoms associated with mesothelioma, including breathing difficulties, chronic, painful cough and the presence of fluid within the lung cavity. Mesothelioma, also referred to as asbestos cancer, has a latent period of between 20 and 50 years, so individuals exposed to asbestos on September 11, 2001 may not experience symptoms for several more years.

In addition to the development of mesothelioma, individuals present at or near the attack site may have developed asthma, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related diseases.

A diagnosis of mesothelioma cancer is a devastating reality. Less than 1% of mesothelioma sufferers will survive for more than 2 years following their initial diagnosis. The firefighters and other first responders who were present following the September 11, 2001 attacks may not have worn a self-contained breathing apparatus or other protective mask at all times while working at the site, and they may live for several more years before they realize that asbestos exposure during their heroic time of duty may ultimately cost them their lives.

The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center commends the brave individuals who served their fellow citizens following the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001 and urges all individuals who may have been exposed to asbestos dust as a result of the attacks to consult with a physician to assess their risk of developing mesothelioma cancer.

The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center is the web’s foremost resource for information related to asbestos exposure, mesothelioma, mesothelioma treatment and more. Please visit www.maacenter.org for further information.