September 11 - The World Trade Center Health Program

On this day in labor history, the year was 2001.

We pause to remember those who died in the 9/11 attacks.

Of those killed, nearly a quarter were union people.

Hundreds of firefighters were lost. 

Dozens of building trades people, including carpenters and electricians were also killed. 

And many other unions lost members as well, including the AFT, SEIU, UNITE-HERE, CWA, and AFSCME. 

Those lost that day will remains firmly forever in our memories. 

What is less well known is the number of those first responders who are suffering from chronic and fatal diseases related to 9/11 or those who have already died. 

It is estimated that over 400,000 people were exposed to World Trade Center contaminants. 

These include more than 70 carcinogens and other hazardous substances. 

Of those exposed, over 91,000 were first responders. 

As of June 2017, over 67,000 first responders and over 12,000 survivors had registered in the World Trade Center Health Program run by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

The program provides medical monitoring, health evaluations and treatment for those who qualify. 

Of those registered responders still alive, more than 45,000 suffer from certified conditions as defined by the Zadroga Act of 2010. 

And for registered survivors, nearly 10,000 suffer from certified conditions. 

Close to 700 registered first responders have already died from certified conditions. 

However, this number is considered a low estimate, given there were many who died before the program was established. 

There are also a number of illnesses believed related to the attacks but not yet certified.

If you are a survivor or were a 9/11 First Responder and would like to enroll in the World Trade Center Health Program, please visit www.cdc.gov/wtc or call toll free 1-888-982-4748.