Consequences of World Trade Center Collapse Linger With WTC Cough Syndrome

Seven years after the tragic collapse of the New York City World Trade Center, the health of those involved continues to be negatively affected. A prevalent health concern that few could have predicted is a long-term respiratory syndrome that resulted from the inhalation of pulverized building materials such as glass, asbestos, heavy metals, silica and volatile organic materials.

The ailment, dubbed WTC Cough Syndrome, was first reported by FDNY fire fighters who responded to the site for rescue services. Other World Trade Center rescue workers have also reported high numbers of respiratory abnormalities. Common symptoms related to the syndrome include chronic asthmatic bronchitis, sinus inflammation and gastroesophageal reflux.

The sad fact is that the majority of the heroes that sifted through the wreckage created by 9/11 are now suffering from this new cough syndrome. Individuals who lived near or worked close to the World Trade Center have also reported respiratory complications.

It is believed that the prevalence of the syndrome could have been greatly reduced had respirators been made available earlier and more consistently following the collapse of the twin towers. However, respirators must be custom-fit to each rescue worker to be effective, making it difficult to administer to emergency response teams in times of crisis.

In an effort to avoid mass inhalation of hazardous particles in the future, experts are currently investigating the possibility of redesigning respirators to be more conducive to emergency response scenarios. Until that time, fire fighters, police officers and good Samaritans will be left holding their breath.

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