9/11 Responders May Face Higher Odds for Dementia

WEDNESDAY, June 12, 2024 (HealthDay News) -- After helping America through one of its worst tragedies, some responders to the events of 9/11 may now face another foe: Heightened risks for dementia.

A new study looks at the health of thousands of firemen, construction workers and others who worked at the World Trade Center (WTC) site for almost a year after the attacks. Many were exposed to high levels of toxic dust.

The study found that the worst-exposed workers face a much higher odds for dementia before the age of 65, compared to folks who worked onsite but either weren't exposed to dust and/or wore effective personal protective equipment (PPE).