Understanding the Various World Trade Center Monitoring Programs

In the aftermath of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center (WTC) several different institutions established monitoring programs to track the health effects of the disaster on people who were the most seriously affected.  Eligibility for these monitoring programs is based on a number of factors including the role people played in the disaster response and their location on September 11, 2001, and afterward.   Many people in these programs now live in other areas of the country.

A significant number of people enrolled in more than one monitoring program which has caused confusion.  The snapshots below are intended to help people remember in which program they enrolled.  More comprehensive information about each of the programs can be found by following the links provided. Each of the programs listed below is engaged in multiple specific research studies to better understand the health implications of 9/11.

FDNY Treatment Program Snapshot

Among 4,794 patients treated for 9/11-related health problems between July 2008 and June 2009:

• 77% had lower respiratory symptoms, such as a cough, shortness of breath, wheezing or chest tightness
• 46% had gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux symptoms, such as heartburn
• 32% had upper respiratory symptoms, such as sinus or nasal congestion
• 10% had both physical and mental health problems

NY/NJ Consortium Treatment Program Snapshot

Among 6,690 patients treated for 9/11-related health problems between July 2008 and June 2009:

• 71% had upper respiratory symptoms, such as sinus or nasal congestion
• 52% had gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux symptoms, such as heartburn
• 46% had lower respiratory symptoms, such as a cough, shortness of breath, wheezing or chest tightness
• 25% had both physical and mental health problems
• 19% did not have health insurance at one time during this period
• 10% received services in a language other than English