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How Railroad Pancreatic Cancer Exposures Increase the Risk of Lung Cancer

The railroad industry transports many different kinds of freight, including grain, food, vehicles, crude oil, and lumber. Unfortunately, some Railroad Reactive Airway Disease workers are exposed dangerous chemicals and fumes that increase their risk of developing cancers such as mesothelioma as well as lung cancer.

Inhaling fibers or toxins, such as benzene can lead to lung cancer. Exposure to these toxic substances can cause lung cancer that manifests 10 to 40 years after exposure.

Diesel Exhaust

When diesel fuel is combusted it releases a gas called particulates. These particles are so small that they can travel deep into the lungs, where they can cause irritation and even damage over the course of time. The chemicals present in diesel fumes can be harmful, as are carcinogens like arsenic, dioxin and Railroad pancreatic Cancer benzene.

Since World War II when diesel engines replaced steam-powered locomotives the railroad industry is exposed to carcinogens every day. In fact, the railroads have among the highest lung cancer rates of all major industries in the United States.

Research has proven that exposure to diesel exhaust is related to lung cancer. In lab experiments, heavy diesel exhaust exposure can cause DNA changes in cells that can lead to cancer. This is also the case for human studies, although it is difficult to take control of other factors that might influence lung cancer risk like smoking cigarettes.

Peer-reviewed studies indicate that inhalation exposure to diesel exhaust can increase the likelihood of developing COPD and reduces lung function. These studies include cohort mortality studies as well as cases-control studies that are nested. After adjustment for asbestos and tobacco exposure, people who had over 20 years of diesel exposure were more likely developing lung cancer.

Asbestos

In the 1930s, asbestos was used to construct Railroad Multiple Myeloma cars and industrial equipment. It was fire retardant and corrosion resistant, as well as insulating. It was also dangerous to health. It can lead to serious lung diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis, as well as pleural effusions.

Asbestos fibers are easily inhaled when they are broken down. If they are inhaled, Railroad Pancreatic Cancer they could be a contributing factor to stomach colon, rectum and stomach cancer. After exposure to asbestos, symptoms of these diseases can take up to 30 years to show up. This is known as a "latency period.

Railroad workers such as engineers conductors and yardmasters are most prone to asbestos-related illnesses. They handled asbestos-containing materials in the manufacturing process, shipping and installation. When they were working on repairs, maintenance, and cleaning, they could be disturbed by asbestos fibers. They are also at risk of breathing in toxic substances when they work in Railroad Mds yards and other industrial areas.

To reduce the risk of injury railroad workers must adhere to certain safety protocols. This includes washing and disinfecting their clothing, removing wet cloths from PPE in a certain order, and double bagging waste. This will ensure that a worker is not exposed to asbestos or diesel exhaust. Employ industrial hygienists who can inspect the workplace for asbestos and other dangers.

Benzene

Benzene is present in the exhaust fumes of diesel locomotives and also in many degreasing agents. Exposure to these chemicals over time increases the risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. Benzene may also increase the chance of developing leukemia. Leukemia is an aggressive blood cancer that starts in the bone marrow it then spreads to other parts of the body. Benzene has been proven to trigger chromosome modifications in bone marrow cells, and these kinds of chromosome mutations are often seen in people with leukemia.

Several national agencies as well as international organizations study the presence of substances found in the environment, to determine if they could cause cancer or encourage its growth. If they do, the substances are classified as carcinogens and need to be carefully controlled in the workplace. Benzene has been tested extensively and has been shown to be a carcinogen both for animals and humans.

Inhaling benzene may cause irritation to the nose, eyes and throat. It can also cause headaches, dizziness and tremors. If benzene is absorbed through the skin, it could cause burning, blisters and redness. If consumed, benzene is able to affect the nervous system and cause problems with the lungs and the heart and even death.

Exposure to benzene for long periods of time can cause other health issues, including reproductive organ damage reduced immune system, and anemia. According to research, pregnant women who inhale high levels of benzene can give birth to premature babies and low-birth weights. Children exposed to benzene could suffer from serious health conditions, including leukemia. The people who lived at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and worked there were exposed the highest levels of benzene.

Other Carcinogens

For decades railroad workers have been exposed to chemicals and physical carcinogens which can cause health problems for them. They are at a greater than average risk of developing cancer and other chronic illnesses. Some of these conditions include mesothelioma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma bladder cancer, and esophageal cancer. Some have even passed away due to their exposures to asbestos, diesel exhaust fumes and other dangerous substances.

Certain carcinogens are outlined on lists published by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP). If a particular substance or exposure appears on the list, there is evidence that it could cause cancer in humans. Some may only cause cancer in a specific group of people or in certain circumstances, such as the length or intensity of the exposure is or if the person has a specific genetic profile.

The body responds in three ways to carcinogens. The body may attempt to repair the damage. Certain cells could die. DNA could change. These mutations stimulate cell growth, which could result in cancer. The kind of cancer that develops and the intensity of the exposure to the carcinogen will determine the type and growth of the cancer. The exposure to these substances could cause various other medical conditions, including fibrosis and COPD. Railroad employees who have been diagnosed with a health issue that they believe is related to their exposure to carcinogens may be entitled to compensation under the Federal Employer's Liability Act.