CDC Restores Vital Funding for 9/11 Cancer Research
In a significant development for first responders and survivors of the September 11 attacks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reinstated a $257,000 contract aimed at research into cancers linked to 9/11 exposure. This move follows an attempt by the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to eliminate the contract, which is crucial for understanding cancer incidence rates among firefighters who were exposed to toxins from the World Trade Center site.
Details of the Restored Contract
The reinstated funding will support research efforts by processing data necessary to compare cancer rates among firefighters exposed to the hazardous environment at Ground Zero with those from other cities who were not exposed. This research is critical for establishing health-related correlations and ensuring comprehensive care for affected individuals.
Earlier this week, the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) revealed that researchers received notice of the contract’s termination just days prior to the announcement of its restoration.
Political Response and Advocacy
New York Representative Nicole Malliotakis confirmed via social media that there would be no cuts to staffing within the World Trade Center Healthcare Program, emphasizing the importance of this program for those affected by 9/11-related illnesses. Senator Chuck Schumer also expressed relief over the restored funding, stating, “This is a clear example of the damaging Trump-DOGE shoot first, ask questions later approach for their rash cuts and layoffs. 9/11 cancer research and funding for FDNY should have never been on the chopping block.”
Schumer called for a full commitment to the program, urging the reinstatement of staff to ensure uninterrupted care for both survivors and first responders.
Impacts of Staffing Cuts
The recent restoration of funding comes after a disturbing announcement that 20% of the World Trade Center Health Program’s staff had been let go, raising concerns about the program’s capacity to serve more than 137,000 individuals enrolled. Advocacy groups argue that reduced staffing complicates the certification process for those seeking recognition of their 9/11-related illnesses.
John Feal, a prominent advocate for 9/11 victims, voiced that the program is essential for adding new illnesses to the compensation list: “The research is vital to the 9/11 community because it allows us to add illnesses to the bill as we move forward.”
The Broader Implications
The potential cancellation of this funding drew widespread outrage across New York City, with FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker highlighting that such cuts would restrict the capability to identify and verify new health conditions related to the World Trade Center toxins. Tucker remarked, “This will hinder our efforts to provide treatment coverage for new conditions, which is a tragedy for all Americans who swore they would never forget.”
Michael Barasche, an attorney representing nearly 40,000 first responders and civilians with 9/11 illnesses, emphasized the importance of ongoing research: “In 2013, no cancers had been linked to the World Trade Center toxins. Today, we have 69 identified cancers, which has been made possible through ongoing research efforts.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul also weighed in on the issue via social media, asserting that the vow to “never forget” extends beyond rhetoric to a commitment of care for those who bravely responded during the attacks. “We’ll fight like hell to stop any initiatives that would break that promise,” she stated.
Conclusion
The restoration of the CDC grant for 9/11 cancer research is a crucial step in ensuring that first responders and survivors receive the necessary support and recognition for their ongoing health battles. As advocacy continues, the focus remains on securing both funding and resources to protect those who served during one of the United States’ most challenging times.
