New Study Finds Strong Link Between WTC Toxic Exposures and Lung Cancer Risk

Research conducted by scientists affiliated with the Stony Brook WTC Health and Wellness Program has unveiled a significant association between exposure to toxic substances at Ground Zero during the 9/11 attacks and the development of lung cancer. Despite nearly 25 years passing since the tragedy, health issues stemming from the toxic debris and fumes continue to affect responders. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from over 12,000 responders monitored by the program between July 2012 and the end of 2023, with an average age of 49.3 years.

The findings reveal that responders who experienced higher levels of exposure to dust, fumes, and sewage odors had nearly three times the risk of developing lung cancer compared to those with minimal exposure. Specifically, responders who reported severe dust and chemical exposure and inconsistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) exhibited the highest incidence of lung cancer, even after accounting for factors like smoking and demographics. In total, 118 individuals in the cohort were diagnosed with lung cancer during the study period.

Lead researcher Sean Clouston explains that toxic materials inhaled during cleanup efforts, such as dust, fumes from burning substances, and sewage odors, are primary contributors to this increased risk. The study underscores that this is the first published research establishing a direct link between the severity of WTC-related exposures and lung cancer incidence in this population.

Previous studies did not identify such a link, partly due to the shorter latency period observed before disease manifestation and lower smoking rates within the responder community. The team plans to continue their investigation to better understand which specific exposures are most relevant and whether the severity and type of lung cancers vary among affected responders.

To mitigate this health burden, experts recommend tobacco control measures and encouraging participation in lung cancer screening programs for this at-risk population. Continued research aims to refine exposure assessments and improve preventative strategies, ultimately reducing the incidence of lung cancer among WTC responders.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-reveals-link-world-center-toxic.html