About the Registry

Enrollment in the WTC Health Registry was voluntary for people who lived, worked or went to school in the area of the WTC disaster, or were involved in rescue and recovery efforts. To enroll, people completed a confidential baseline health survey in 2003 or 2004. Each enrollee answered a series of questions about where they were on 9/11, their experiences and their health. This initial data allowed health professionals to compare the health of those directly exposed to the WTC disaster to the health of the general population. No blood tests or medical exams were required to enroll.

The Registry completed its adult follow-up survey in 2007 and the child survey the following year. The Registry is now the largest registry to track the health effects of a disaster in American

history.

The Registry's 2008 annual report includes information on the Registry's key activities and accomplishments for 2008, as well as details on recent findings about the health consequences of 9/11.

The results of these surveys will help determine to what extent physical and mental health conditions have persisted, and whether any new symptoms and conditions have emerged. Another important goal is to identify and help address gaps in physical and mental health treatment.

Registry findings will be shared with:

• Enrollees and the public to help those affected by the attacks make informed decisions about their health.
• Health professionals who are conducting studies about people affected by 9/11.
• Doctors and other medical providers who may treat people affected by 9/11.

In addition to completing Registry surveys, more than 90% of enrollees say they would be interested in participating in studies on the health effects of 9/11 conducted by external researchers. Recent studies included how the evacuation of the buildings occurred, psychological responses to the disaster and the mental health needs of children of first responders.