The FDNY released a landmark report on the September 11th terror attacks and the impact on first responders’ health in the 25 years that have followed.
The report follows the physical and mental health of 15,000 EMS providers and firefighters who were exposed to the air at the World Trade Center in the aftermath of the attack. While the devastating health impacts to first responders at Ground Zero have been known for years, the report builds on existing research and brings it up to date, 25 years later.
The report (available below or here) shows more than 12,000 have been diagnosed and certified with at least one related physical or mental health condition.
Some diseases and conditions can take decades to develop and it can be difficult to prove direct association, but researchers outline in the report how there is now a focus on autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, hearing issues and cognitive concerns like memory loss. They are looking to see if there is a significant link with Ground Zero exposure.
The FDNY commissioner shared that the medical monitoring is not only informing the reports, but is also helping first responders.
“We have data-driven outcomes that show that our program produces real, life-saving impacts and that translates to more time. More time with your loved ones, more birthdays, more holidays, weddings and graduations,” said Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore.
On Sept. 11, 343 firefighters and EMS workers lost their lives. More than 600 FDNY members have died since that day as a result of the rescue and recovery efforts.