Cognitive decline in World Trade Center survivors with chronic disorders

Cognitive decline among WTC survivors with chronic mental and physical disorders

['FUNDING_U01'] · NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · NIH-10866337

This study is looking at how the dust and fumes from the World Trade Center attacks, along with the stress from that experience, might be affecting the thinking and memory skills of survivors who have ongoing health problems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10866337 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the cognitive decline experienced by survivors of the World Trade Center attacks who suffer from chronic mental and physical disorders. It focuses on understanding how exposure to dust and fumes from the disaster, along with psychological trauma, may lead to neuroinflammation and cognitive impairments. The study aims to explore the biological mechanisms linking oxidative stress and systemic inflammation to these cognitive issues. Participants will be monitored and assessed to identify the impact of their exposures on cognitive health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals who were present during the World Trade Center attacks and are experiencing chronic mental or physical health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who were not exposed to the World Trade Center disaster or do not have chronic mental or physical disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for cognitive decline in WTC survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant cognitive impairments in WTC responders, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.