9/11 World Trade Center Asbestos Exposure

Most often, mesothelioma is related to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is present almost everywhere and almost everyone is exposed to asbestos during their lives. Yet, most of those people are not at risk for mesothelioma or other asbestos related diseases. It is people who have extended exposure to asbestos, usually through their work, that should be most concerned about this deadly kind of cancer.

Risk of illness to workers and their families
Beginning in the 1940s, American workers in a variety of construction trades were regularly exposed to asbestos. It has affected workers in the asbestos mining industry, the shipbuilding industry and, the construction industry. It has also affected workers who are involved with buildings as they come down including demolition workers and firefighters. People who have lived with workers in these trades also need to be aware of the disease and watch for symptoms. It has been shown that the asbestos fibers that workers carry home on their clothes and equipment can cause mesothelioma.

The Potential for Illness as a Result of the September 11 Attacks
While mesothelioma can take 20 – 40 years to present itself after a worker has worked with asbestos, there is growing concern that a whole new group of workers may have been exposed in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. As the towers crumbled and the nation mourned, a brave group of rescue and recovery workers set about the brave task of helping the victims and cleaning the site. Asbestos had been used in the construction of the North Tower of the World Trade Center and when the building collapsed it is estimated that hundreds of tons of asbestos were released into the atmosphere. The rescue and recovery workers are at the greatest risk for mesothelioma and other asbestos related illnesses. However, those in nearby residences, offices and schools must also keep a careful watch for symptoms of the disease.

If you believe that you are in one of the risk groups for mesothelioma then you should discuss your concerns with your doctor as soon as possible.