George Pataki reveals 9/11-related lung disease

Former New York Governor George Pataki has revealed he is suffering from restrictive airway disease, a lung condition linked to his exposure to toxins at Ground Zero following the September 11 terrorist attacks. Pataki, who served as governor from 1995 to 2006, stated he received the diagnosis within the last five years.

Pataki noted that while he experiences residual health impacts, he considers himself “one of the lucky ones” compared to others affected by the disaster. He expressed a desire to redirect attention toward the first responders and public servants who worked at the site during the rescue and recovery efforts.

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani has also been diagnosed with restrictive airway disease due to his exposure at the site. A representative for Giuliani confirmed the diagnosis following his hospitalization for pneumonia earlier this year. The condition is caused by the toxic dust and fine particulate matter that filled Lower Manhattan after the collapse of the World Trade Center towers.