Nearly 6,000 individuals, including first responders and survivors of the September 11, 2001 attacks, have died from cancer linked to toxic exposure at Ground Zero, a figure that more than doubles the 2,753 lives lost in the terror attacks themselves. As of July 31, data from the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund shows a total of 9,677 deaths from illnesses attributed to 9/11, with cancer accounting for 5,892 of those fatalities.
More than 57,000 cancer cases have been documented among those exposed to the toxic air and debris at the World Trade Center site. Officials caution that the true number of illnesses and deaths may be even higher, as not everyone exposed has enrolled in health programs or come forward with diagnoses.
The World Trade Center Health Program data indicates significantly elevated cancer rates among its members compared to the general population. Members are 123 times more likely to develop thyroid cancer, 119 times more likely to have melanoma, and 98 times more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Women in this group are 100 times more likely to develop breast cancer.
Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common diagnosis, with 18,380 cases. Prostate cancer follows with 13,170 cases, then female breast cancer (4,830), melanoma (3,860), and lymphoma (2,560), according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data through June 30.
Attorney Michael Barasch, whose firm represents thousands of individuals with 9/11-related illnesses, noted a surge in male breast cancer cases, which are statistically rare. His firm loses two clients to cancer daily but gains a dozen more who are newly diagnosed or family members of those who have died.
First responders and survivors were exposed to a toxic cloud containing carcinogenic compounds such as lead, mercury, and cadmium from burning materials, as well as sulfuric acid and other corrosive gases. Barasch, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018, stated that the impact of 9/11 is not a past event but an ongoing crisis.
Dr. Michael Crane, medical director of the World Trade Center Health Program Clinical Center of Excellence at Mount Sinai, expressed concern over the increased rates of melanoma, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, leukemias, and lymphomas. He also highlighted that many children who were exposed and are now in their 20s remain largely unstudied.
While approximately 400,000 people are estimated to have been significantly exposed to toxins below Canal Street, only about 90,000 first responders and 60,000 civilians have enrolled in the program. Efforts to enroll more survivors are ongoing, but challenges remain in reaching those who may believe the program is exclusive to first responders.
Beyond cancer, non-cancer illnesses are also prevalent. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the most common, affecting 3,679 program members, though deaths from these conditions are not publicly tallied.
Retired FDNY Deputy Chief Richard Alles, who was at Ground Zero for weeks after the attacks, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2023. He was a key advocate for the James Zadroga Act, passed in 2010, which provides medical treatment and financial compensation to 9/11 responders and survivors. Accountant Peter Raho, who returned to his office three blocks from the World Trade Center, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2014. He continues to manage ongoing health needs and medication.
