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The scale of 9/11's health impacts, visualized 25 years later
The release follows findings that 400,000 people were exposed to toxic contaminants and that 49,000 cancers have been linked to the attacks.
On Tuesday, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the city released records revealing officials misled residents about air quality following the 9/11 attacks. Documents confirmed contamination levels in Manhattan areas exceeded acceptable limits.
Close to 25 years later, more people have died from 9/11-related illnesses than were killed on the day itself. Mamdani said leaders "lied and told them they were safe to breathe in toxic air."
The CDC estimates 400,000 people were exposed to toxic contaminants and "physically and emotionally stressful conditions" in the months after the attacks. At least 140,000 have enrolled in the World Trade Center Health Program for monitoring and treatment.
According to the Memorial, 49,000 people have been diagnosed with 9/11-related cancers, including blood, digestive, ovarian and lung cancers. James Brosi, president of FDNY Uniformed Fire Officers Association, confirmed these findings.
This year, the 9/11 commemoration ceremony at Ground Zero will include a seventh moment of silence to recognize the thousands of deaths from diseases linked to the attacks. The addition reflects the magnitude of the ongoing health toll.