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Myelodysplastic Syndrome

A diagnosis of myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) can be a devastating diagnosis. Often diagnosed during retirement, those who suffer from MDS lose their golden years.

It is possible that benzene and other toxic chemicals were utilized in the workplace by railroad employees who were diagnosed with MDS. Our knowledgeable lawyers for railroad diseases can help.

Benzene

It is a liquid that is found naturally in crude oil and gasoline and in chemical solvents. It is also used in the production of numerous other chemicals and substances such as rubbers, dyes detergents, Railroad Mesothelioma lubricants, detergents and pesticides. Exposure to benzene for the course of a long time may cause blood-related diseases, including myelodysplastic syndrome. The disorder is caused by the destruction of bone marrow cells that are responsible for the production of new blood cells.

Workers who are exposed to benzene at work are at a greater risk of developing cancer. Benzene is a known carcinogen has been linked with various cancers, including lymphoma and leukemia. It has been linked with lung cancer, multiple lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Benzene exposure has been shown in numerous studies to cause changes to the chromosomes within bone marrow cell chromosomes which can result in these kinds of cancers.

Railroad workers are exposed to the benzene in their daily lives because of the fumes produced by diesel fuel. The exposure can occur when railroad workers are working on trains, shunting vehicles or in yards where trains are parked. Exposure is also possible when workers use products containing benzene like brake and carbur cleaners. The vapors from diesel exhaust may also enter their bodies through their nose and mouth.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome

The cells that produce blood in your bone marrow develop abnormal, resulting in a decrease in certain types blood cells. These include red blood cells (that transport oxygen) white blood cells (that protect against infection) and platelets (that stop excessive bleeding). This condition is referred to as myelodysplastic Syndrome, or MDS. MDS can be mild, allowing patients to live for more than decade, but the majority of cases progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in about one-third of patients.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome symptoms vary and are difficult for doctors to diagnose. A blood smear can reveal cytopenias, or abnormally low levels of these blood cells. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as nutritional status, alcohol consumption or other medications, toxins, and prior treatments for cytotoxics.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome poses a risk for railroad workers who have been exposed to benzene, and other chemicals such as solvents, thinners and paints. This includes trackmen who work in repair shops for Railroad Mesothelioma trains or on locomotives as well as steam engineers, yardmen conductors, and others who are exposed to herbicides. They could also be at risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma (a cancer that is linked to benzene).

Diesel Exhaust Fumes

Railroad workers are exposed to many risks on the job. Heavy machinery, swiftly moving engine parts, and physical labor all increase the chance of accidents and injuries. One of the most hidden dangers to the health of railroad workers is the long-term exposure to diesel fumes.

Long-term exposure to diesel fumes can cause lung diseases such as COPD and emphysema. It can also contribute to an increased risk of lung cancer. Carcinogens, like sulfur oxide, nitrogen oxides and poly-systematic hydrcarbons are transported by diesel particulates. These particulates can cause harm to the respiratory system because of reduced oxygen intake and carbon monoxide exhalation.

The benzene present in diesel fuel is a petroleum byproduct. It is a further hazard to railroad workers are exposed to on a daily basis. This chemical is linked to leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Although there isn't enough evidence to show that diesel exhaust fumes directly contribute for these serious conditions but there is enough evidence to prove that prolonged exposure to such poisonous substances could have adverse health effects on Railroad Mesothelioma - such a good point - workers. Federal regulations have imposed more stringent standards on workplaces regarding the amount of diesel fumes that can be ingested in locomotive cabs and in shops.

Railroad Workers' Rights

Rail workers should have the right to refuse to work against will and to negotiate contracts that are in line with their requirements. The right to strike is a fundamental right of workers freedom and should never be sacrificed to increase corporate profits or economic stability.

Despite the absence of protections for railroad workers, union officials have vowed to fight for a better deal. The leadership of the engineers and conductors unions has announced that they will not sign any agreement that does NOT include paid sick days. Two major railroad companies have proposed shareholder resolutions that call for paid sick days for employees of rail and other labor organizations are increasing their efforts to support workers who make our economy possible.

Although the government may create an agreement, it's not wise to do so in this case, especially considering the consequences of a major rail strike on the supply chains of the nation. Business groups, such as the National Association of Manufacturers and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have warned that a railway strike could delay or interrupt the supply of essential goods like fertilizers, food and drinks as well as electronics, clothing and medicines.

The move by Congress and the president Biden to impose the terms of the contract a step in the wrong direction. The administration should have ensured that any contract complied with workers' requirements, including paid sick leave.