Manhattan September 11 anniversary marks 25 years of health impacts

The 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks in downtown Manhattan marks a significant moment in collective memory. Beyond the structural destruction of the Twin Towers, the event left lasting health consequences for survivors and rescue workers.

Reports indicate that approximately 400,000 people were exposed to hazardous materials, including asbestos, silica, metals, concrete, and glass. This exposure has led to chronic respiratory diseases, various cancers, and severe mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and substance abuse.

Controversy surrounds the initial response by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which declared the area safe to breathe and the water safe to use only one week after the attacks. It was later revealed that this information was inaccurate, allegedly part of a rushed strategy to encourage economic reactivation. A health program remains in place to support those affected through the year 2090.