Diesel is a fossil fuel that’s manufactured from crude oil. Although some family vehicles run on it, diesel fuel is used primarily in large engines like heavy equipment, trucks, ships and locomotive engines. Railroad workers are exposed to diesel fuel emissions on a daily basis. There is strong evidence that they can develop lung cancer and other cancer and health disorders from diesel emission fumes that result in premature death.
A Likely Carcinogen
Diesel fuel has been classified as a likely carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Given its composition, diesel particulate matter has been characterized as a magnet for other toxins that result in a dangerous blend of toxic gasses and metals. The Clean Air Task Force is based in Boston. It reports that about 21,000 people die every year from exposure to diesel emissions. About 3,000 of those deaths are the result of lung cancer.
Other Suspected Health Risks
As per our railroad cancer lawyer, diesel locomotives are the primary cause of diesel emissions around railroads. Aside from lung cancer, there is strong evidence that diesel emissions can cause stomach cancer, damage the central nervous system and contribute to heart attacks, strokes and immune disorders.
If you or a family member have been employed in railroading, have been exposed to diesel exhaust fumes on a daily basis and have developed lung cancer or any other condition that you believe is attributable to diesel emissions, contact the railroad cancer lawyer at Diesel Injury Law to arrange for a free consultation and case evaluation by calling 312-877-5588, or by using our online contact form.
