Nearly 25 years after the September 11 attacks, the release of more than 170,000 pages of New York City records has shed fresh light on the toxic dust that blanketed Lower Manhattan. The documents confirm that the pulverized debris contained a complex mix of inorganic and organic chemicals, including heavy metals such as cadmium and lead, as well as asbestos, a known carcinogen.

Experts explain why the dust is especially dangerous

Dr. Ana Navas‑Acien, chair of environmental health sciences at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, told CNN that the dust’s composition is unlike natural dust found in places like the Great Plains. “It’s not common for humans to be exposed to that level of dust,” she said, noting that the fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, where metals may accumulate in bone and other tissues for decades.

Asbestos fibers, wood, plastics and glass were also present, creating a cocktail of irritants that can affect the lungs, brain, cardiovascular system and more. Researchers stress that the mixture of substances makes it difficult to isolate the impact of any single component.

Health impacts observed among responders and residents

Doctors who treated early victims report a range of conditions, from sinusitis, bronchitis and asthma to PTSD and gastrointestinal issues. Over time, they have seen an increase in cancers such as mesothelioma, leukemia, lymphoma and other malignancies among participants in the World Trade Center Health Program.

Frank Kotnik, a former blacksmith for the New York City Department of Transportation who helped clear debris, was diagnosed with bladder cancer after years of exposure. He now receives care through the federally funded World Trade Center Health Program, which provides treatment for illnesses linked to the dust.

Calls for accountability and continued research

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the newly released files reveal that officials at the time downplayed the danger, telling workers the air was safe to breathe. Scientists continue to study the long‑term effects, including potential impacts on mental health, cognitive function and fertility.

Officials encourage anyone who may have been exposed to the dust to check with their doctors and consider enrolling in the World Trade Center Health Program for early diagnosis and treatment.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.