9/11 and Mesothelioma Risks: Help for First Responders and Survivors

Twenty-five years after the horrific World Trade Center attack on September 11, 2001, many brave first responders and survivors are still fighting. Tens of thousands have developed cancers like mesothelioma from the toxic dust cloud that covered the disaster site.

Dust from the World Trade Center attacks contained harmful materials like:

• Asbestos (a known carcinogen)
• Cement
• Glass
• Lead

First responders and civilians can get support after a mesothelioma diagnosis. Thanks to the World Trade Center Health Program, eligible first responders and survivors with WTC-related conditions can receive free health care.

Mesothelioma and 9/11 Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma, and dust released into the air from the aftermath of the attack was contaminated with this toxic material.

At the time of the World Trade Center’s construction in the 1960s and ‘70s, before the public became aware of the health risks, asbestos was commonly used for insulation and fireproofing. As much as 400 tons of asbestos were used to build the World Trade Center, according to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

Many first responders didn’t have proper protective gear in the rush to help survivors after the tragedy, meaning these heroes breathed in and swallowed asbestos without realizing it. In fact, up to 3% of the dust concentrations released from the 9/11 disaster site consisted of asbestos fibers.

“This is a relatively high percentage, and you can imagine after 220 floors of towers came down with various construction materials that had asbestos on them, there was a lot of asbestos in the community.”

— Dr. Jacqueline Moline, former World Trade Center Health Program director

It wasn’t just the first responders who were put in harm’s way. Anyone in the surrounding community during 9/11 and the weeks that followed could have been exposed and put at risk of mesothelioma.

Rates of Mesothelioma Among 9/11 Responders & Survivors

There are 24 known cases of mesothelioma linked to 9/11 dust, according to the World Trade Center Health Program. However, that number will almost certainly increase as it commonly takes up to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after asbestos exposure.

The two most common types of mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma (which affects the lining of the lungs) and peritoneal mesothelioma (which forms in the abdominal lining), have both been reported among 9/11 first responders.

Contact us now to get help if you or a loved one has developed mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease. We can pursue compensation, treatments, and VA benefits on your behalf.

9/11 Hero Bravely Fights Mesothelioma

A quarter of a century after 9/11, survivors and first responders continue to suffer due to asbestos exposure. The story of Nick and Margaret Ursta is just one example.

The couple was among the first responders who rushed to Manhattan to help in the aftermath of the World Trade Center attacks. Margaret remembers dust being everywhere as they worked.

More than 15 years later, Nick began suffering from congestion. He developed pleural mesothelioma and fought the cancer for over a year and a half before he passed away in late 2019.

“He was an amazing man and will be highly missed. There will never be anyone else like him.”

– Margaret Ursta, widow of 9/11 mesothelioma victim Nick Ursta

The Urstas are not alone. Over 25,000 9/11 first responders were diagnosed with various cancers as of 2026, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

9/11 25th Anniversary: Remembrance and Ongoing Health Challenges

To commemorate the 25th anniversary, events in New York City and nationwide will remember the tragic losses of the 9/11 attacks and their aftermath.

A ceremony will be held on the 9/11 Memorial Plaza to read the names of the attack’s victims and will include a moment of silence for those lost due to health effects. The Tribute in Light will feature two beams of light projected into the sky from south of the memorial, visible from up to 60 miles away.

As the nation observes the 25th anniversary for 9/11, first responders and survivors face serious health problems. Over 9,000 people enrolled in the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) have died from related illnesses, per ABC 7.

First responders from the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) have severe health challenges. More than 10,500 FDNY members, including firefighters and emergency medical technicians, live with a 9/11-related illness. Of those members, 4,257 were diagnosed with cancer, the FDNY WTCHP reported.

Help for 9/11 Responders and Survivors at Risk of Mesothelioma

First responders and survivors dealing with mesothelioma or other health problems related to 9/11 25 years later may qualify for free health care and financial benefits.

Organizations that assist 9/11 first responders and survivors include:

• Mesothelioma Veterans Center: We help civilians, first responders, U.S. veterans, and families access treatments, financial compensation, and military benefits. Contact us now to see how we can assist you and your family.
• September 11th Victim Compensation Fund: This fund awards compensation for physical injuries or deaths related to the 9/11 attacks and recovery efforts. Over 65,000 claimants have received nearly $15 billion to date.
• World Trade Center Health Program: Established in 2010, this program covers medical expenses like co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs for those who qualify. First responders and survivors can enroll as a precaution, even if they aren't currently sick.

By exploring these options, those who developed cancers like mesothelioma after 9/11 can get the care and resources they deserve.

Mesothelioma and 9/11: Never Forget

The horrific attacks on 9/11 — and the selfless bravery of first responders — are etched into history forever. Yet the horrible truth is that many more responders and bystanders exposed to asbestos during 9/11 are at risk of mesothelioma today.

“Many of the respiratory problems we’re seeing are not from asbestos because it’s too soon, but from the glass and the concrete that was in the air.”

— Dr. Jacqueline Moline, former World Trade Center Health Program director

The U.S. government has made efforts to ensure anyone who develops health problems like mesothelioma from the aftermath of the tragedy can get the help they need.

The entire Mesothelioma Veterans Center team stands by first responders and survivors who continue to fight health problems 25 years later. Their sacrifices and heroism will never be forgotten.

Call (877) 450-8973 or contact us now to see how we can help you or someone you love with mesothelioma. You may qualify for top treatments, VA benefits, and compensation to cover your expenses.