Physical Health

Studies conducted after 9/11 suggest that those who experienced the WTC attacks are at a greater risk of developing long-term physical health problems. Described below are some of the 52 related health conditions covered by the WTC Health Program.

Asthma

Within six years after 9/11, one in ten Registry enrollees developed asthma. This is three times the national rate.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (GERS) are reported at higher rates than expected among people exposed to the WTC disaster.

Heart Disease

People who suffered more than one injury on 9/11 and have 9/11-related PTSD are three times more likely to develop heart disease as people who weren’t.

Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis is a common condition reported by people who were exposed to the World Trade Center disaster.

Sleep Apnea

People who were at the site of the World Trade Center disaster are more likely to develop severe sleep apnea. Studies found that people with common 9/11-related health conditions were more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea.

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