9/11 and Mesothelioma Risks | Asbestos Exposure on 9/11

Mesothelioma and 9/11 Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Dust samples from the 9/11 disaster site contained 0.8% to 3% concentrations of asbestos.

“This is a relatively high percentage, and you can imagine after 220 floors of towers came down with various construction materials that had asbestos on them, there was a lot of asbestos in the community.”

— Dr. Jacqueline Moline, former World Trade Center Health Program director

Many first responders didn’t wear proper protective gear in the rush to help survivors after the tragedy, meaning they likely breathed in and swallowed this asbestos-contaminated dust.

It wasn’t just the first responders who were put in harm’s way. Anyone in the community could have been exposed and put at risk of mesothelioma.

Rates of Mesothelioma Among 9/11 Responders & Survivors

There are 24 known cases of mesothelioma linked to 9/11 dust to date, according to the World Trade Center Health Program.

However, that number will almost certainly increase as it can take up to 50 years or more for mesothelioma to develop after asbestos exposure.

“Many of the respiratory problems we’re seeing are not from asbestos because it’s too soon, but from the glass and the concrete that was in the air.”

— Dr. Jacqueline Moline, former World Trade Center Health Program director

Contact us now to get help if you or a loved one has developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease. We can pursue compensation, treatments, and VA benefits on your behalf if eligible.

9/11 Hero Bravely Fights Mesothelioma

Decades after 9/11, survivors and first responders continue to suffer due to asbestos exposure. The story of Nick and Margaret Ursta is just one example.

The couple was among the first responders who rushed to Manhattan to help in the aftermath of the World Trade Center attacks. Margaret remembers dust being everywhere as they worked. This asbestos-laced dust would ultimately lead to Nick’s death.

More than 15 years after their bravery on 9/11, Nick began suffering from congestion in his lungs. He was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma and fought the cancer for over a year and a half before he passed away in late 2019.

“He was an amazing man and will be highly missed. There will never be anyone else like him.”

– Margaret Ursta, widow of 9/11 mesothelioma victim Nick Ursta

The Urstas are not alone. Over 14,000 9/11 first responders have been diagnosed with various cancers, and around 1,000 have died, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Help for 9/11 Responders and Survivors At Risk of Mesothelioma

First responders and survivors dealing with mesothelioma or other health problems related to 9/11 may qualify for free health care and financial benefits.

Organizations that assist 9/11 first responders and survivors include:

• Mesothelioma Veterans Center: We help civilians, first responders, U.S. veterans, and families access treatments, financial compensation, and military benefits. Contact us now to see how we can assist you and your family.
• September 11th Victim Compensation Fund: This awards compensation for physical injuries or deaths related to the 9/11 attacks and recovery efforts. Over 56,000 claimants have received nearly $13 billion as of 2024.
• World Trade Center Health Program: Established in 2010, this program covers medical expenses like co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs for those who qualify. First responders and survivors can enroll even if they are not currently sick as a precaution.

By exploring these options, those who developed cancers like mesothelioma after 9/11 can get the care and resources they deserve.

Mesothelioma And 9/11: Never Forget

The horrific attacks on 9/11 — and the selfless bravery of first responders — are etched into history forever.

The U.S. government has made efforts to ensure anyone who develops health problems like mesothelioma from the aftermath of the tragedy will get the help they need.

The entire Mesothelioma Veterans Center team stands by first responders and survivors who continue to fight health problems to this day. Their sacrifices and heroism will never be forgotten.

Call (877) 450-8973 or contact us now to see how we can help you or someone you love with mesothelioma. You may qualify for top treatments, VA benefits, and compensation to cover your expenses.