Over 23 years after the Twin Towers fell, the number of individuals diagnosed with 9/11-related illnesses continues to rise. The World Trade Center Health Program, established in 2011, provides crucial support for thousands of people affected by toxic dust, covering conditions like cancer, asthma, and PTSD. As of December, about 132,000 are enrolled, with 64% suffering from at least one related illness; cancer is the predominant issue, impacting over 40,000 members.
Recently, staffing issues at the program have arisen due to abrupt changes in leadership under the Trump administration. Staff cuts, including those at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), have delayed enrollment and treatment confirmations. Advocates warn that these reductions hinder critical services and may result in adverse health outcomes, such as delayed diagnoses or treatments. Notably, no new enrollments have occurred since April 1, a significant concern as roughly 200 members typically join monthly.
The impact of this staffing crisis extends to screening processes and treatment negotiations, potentially jeopardizing reimbursements for necessary medical interventions like chemotherapy. Advocates and attorneys plan to advocate for the reinstatement of staff and push for additional funding at a Congressional hearing. New York City Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the city’s commitment to supporting 9/11 responders and survivors and highlighted the vital partnership with the federal government in delivering timely healthcare resources.
The plight of those affected appears increasingly precarious. Support structures already strained by budgetary constraints may face further challenges, with warnings of potential program scaling back in the future. A bipartisan bill introduced in February seeks to secure long-term funding for the program, which is critical for continuing access to necessary health services for this vulnerable community.
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