Mesothelioma Linked to 9/11 Site

Article Added September 20th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

As the five-year anniversary of the events of September 11^th come nearer, many are unable to forget the trauma of that day. But for some involved in rescue and clearing the site, respiratory diseases will never let them forget.

Almost five years has passed since the World Trade Center buildings were attacked, leading to the destruction of both towers and millions of lives. Those people that were involved in rescue efforts and the clearing of the site are among the numbers that were personally affected by the trauma of that day. But for some, they carry with them a deadly reminder of the rubble - respiratory diseases, including mesothelioma. A type of lung cancer, mesothelioma occurs when a person breathes in asbestos fibers.

A huge upsurge of mesothelioma cases has concerned the government as more workers come forward with the condition. Those at Ground Zero were exposed to asbestos, which has led many of them to develop emphysema, asbestosis and the potentially deadly mesothelioma. Construction workers, police personnel and firefighters are among the affected, with more cases being discovered every day. The government is purposing action on the new development, and will be considering Bills to address the growing problem.

Article Added September 20th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story