Investigating heart disease in rescue workers exposed to World Trade Center dust

Cardiovascular Disease among WTC-exposed Rescue/Recovery Workers

NIH-funded research Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10994800

This study is looking at how breathing in dust from the World Trade Center might affect the heart health of rescue and recovery workers, to see if those who were more exposed to the dust are more likely to develop heart problems over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAlbert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bronx, United States)
Project IDNIH-10994800 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the relationship between exposure to dust from the World Trade Center (WTC) and the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among rescue and recovery workers. By analyzing medical records from a centralized New York State database, the study aims to evaluate the incidence of CVD events in a large cohort of these workers, particularly comparing those with high and low levels of exposure. The research will also assess how CVD incidence may change over time and across different occupations involved in the rescue efforts.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are rescue and recovery workers who were exposed to WTC dust during the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.

Not a fit: Patients who were not involved in the rescue or recovery efforts at the WTC site may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for cardiovascular disease in individuals exposed to hazardous environments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying results regarding the link between WTC exposure and cardiovascular disease, indicating that this research is building on existing knowledge but aims to clarify inconsistencies.

Where this research is happening

Bronx, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.