Thread by @ajplus

2,753 people died at Ground Zero on 9/11 eighteen years ago.

The attack also exposed hundreds of thousands to asbestos, dust and poisonous gases.

51,000 people are feared to have since developed related illnesses.

#September11

51,000 people are feared to have developed illnesses related to the 9/11 attacks, many of them first responders like firefighters and police.

Those illnesses include:
- Cancer
- Traumatic injury
- Breathing problems
- Depression or anxiety
- PTSD

#September11

The 9/11 attacks are linked to over 60 types of cancer.

Over 8,800 first responders have developed cancer since the attacks, says the CDC.

600 have died from them.

#September11

Over 11,000 first responders have developed mental health problems since 9/11.

At least 51 first responders have died by suicide since the attack, according to researchers.

#September11

Lawmakers are paying tribute to 9/11 victims and the first responders who risked their lives during the attacks:

#September11

New Zealand firefighters performed Haka to honor first responders who died in the line of duty at the World Trade Center on #September11.

First responders on the ground on 9/11 were most at risk of developing cancer and other diseases, say studies.

Over 1,600 of them have died since the attack, including 200 firefighters.

#September11

51,000 people have applied for compensation from a fund for people with 9/11-related illnesses. Less than half of them have gotten it.

The $7.4B compensation fund was almost out of money until Congress extended it this year.

#September11

The 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund almost ran out of money this year until testimony from people like Jon Stewart spurred Congress into action. It has since been renewed until 2092.

#September11

Luis Alvarez spent months searching for 9/11 victims at Ground Zero. After asking Congress to extend compensation for other first responders, he died from cancer linked to the attack:

#September11