Asbestos

September 11th, 2001: The Enduring Health Legacy

http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/brian/september-11th-2001-the-enduring-health-legacy.htm
by Brian Turner
September 9th, 2011

Surely 9/11 touched each and every American significantly. It was the end of American innocence, sending a powerful message about our place in the world. Today, almost without exception, each of us can say that because of that bright September morning, we have been changed for life. Mothers were left without sons; brothers without brothers, and friends were taken from friends by this senseless act of violence. Unfortunately, the ultimate legacy of 9/11 many still bear as they deal with the long-lasting health effects associated these terrorist attacks.

Some have been left with the psychological trauma from that day, while others, including first responders and other rescue workers present that day must now confront respiratory conditions from the non-infamous “World Trade Center dust” that blanketed much of lower Manhattan that day. Ten years later, we still grapple with the realities of this dust and its devastating effects. What we won’t know for many years is the true, enduring effect of this dust. But we do know, and what will become clear as we explore this topic, is that the effects of the 9/11 on our health will continue to haunt us for years to come.

The Black Irony Coughs Itself Up.

A retro Asbestos/Twin Towers ad from The Consumerist

WTC Asbestos Ad
One of Copyranter's readers found this disturbing old-skool ad for asbestos, featuring the former World Trade Center.

...judging by the look and type, I'd say is circa 1970s-mid80s. Copy reads: "Asbestos contains fire, cannot burn and holds up after metal and glass have melted down, giving vital time for people to escape." Also, note the tagline. [When life depends on it, you use asbestos]. The ad is from a Canadian company, Asbestos Corporation Limited. Surprised they're still operating and haven't been sued into a pile of dust.

It hits me very hard personally: my Father has asbestosis in his lungs from 37 years of pipe-fitter work for a big DuPont chemical plant. The company's plant physicians kept his condition a secret from him for many, many years.

...And now you know why corporations are awesome! — BEN POPKEN

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