Railroad Cancer
Railroads burn millions of gallons of diesel fuel to operate freight trains across long distances. This extremely toxic diesel exhaust is rich in carcinogens such as arsenic and benzene.
You may be qualified for compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) when you're a railroad worker who has been diagnosed with cancer. Our experienced Houston railroad cancer lawyers can assist you to seek an equitable financial settlement to help you bear the burden.
Benzene
Benzene is a solvent used in industrial processes and can be found in the exhaust of diesel engines. Many railroad workers, like conductors, engineers and machinists and electricians are employed in places in which they come in contact with diesel fumes.
One exposure to benzene could cause cancer in a few people. It is believed to cause acute meeloid leukemia (AML). This cancer begins in the bone marrow, and spreads into the blood. It is more prevalent in men than it is in women and can be fatal if left untreated.
The immune system is susceptible to damage from benzene, which is why it poses a danger. This could lead to infections and a lower ability to fight off germs. Benzene may also weaken bones and increase the risk of developing arthritis.
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is another serious side effect of benzene. This kind of cancer begins in the bone marrow and then spreads to blood. It can affect the spleen and other body parts.
A study from 2015 revealed that even low levels benzene increases the risk of developing leukemia by a third. Researchers looked into the medical records of 25,000 Norwegian oil-rig workers who been working for more than 20 days.
Despite the risk of being exposed to benzene in the workplace, it is still utilized in many commercial and industrial processes. There are, however, ways to reduce exposure to benzene and prevent poisoning.
Wearing protective eyewear and proper clothing is a way to protect your eyes. This will help prevent benzene from getting in the eyes and nose. It is also recommended to wear a respirator when possible.
If you suspect that you have been exposed to benzene in any way, you must immediately contact your doctor. This will help you identify any symptoms you might be suffering from and help reduce your chances of death from benzene poisoning.
Benzene is also known to cause brain damage, as well as many other types of cancer. It can lead to a loss of memory and confusion. If you are affected by this condition it can cause an impairment in your quality of life and make it difficult to function at home and in the workplace.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a noxious mineral that has been shown to cause many serious diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. It is found in a variety of materials that are used in construction, like pipe insulation and floor tiles.
As consequently, asbestos exposure is one of the most serious health risks for those working in the industry of railroads. Railroad workers may be exposed to asbestos-containing substances in many different ways, and some of the most prevalent are:
A single exposure to asbestos may lead to mesothelioma and other cancers that can be life-threatening. The cancers, which develop in the lungs or the membrane which covers the lungs, and abdominal cavity (the mesothelium), are often fatal.
Most people who have been exposed to asbestos fibers aren't likely to suffer from any of the health issues that can be related to this substance. The majority of the fibers will be coughed up, or will be transported away in mucus that protects the lung. However there are a few kinds of asbestos fibers that will stick to your lung and remain there for decades or years.
Although the health effects of this condition are different between individuals, they can result in chest discomfort, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties, tightness in the chest, and chest pain. The symptoms could also include difficulty swallowing or weight loss.
Children exposed to asbestos are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma and other forms of cancer. They are more likely to breathe harmful fibers through the mouth and nose. Their lung's development is still in its early stages.
They breathe at a greater rate, and since their lungs have a greater volume to surface ratio than adults', they can inhale more asbestos fibers.
Young children are more likely to inhale the harmful fibers than adults, and are particularly at risk if they've been near railway cars. If they have a parent with mesothelioma, they are at a higher chance of developing the disease.
Creosote
During the 19th Century the development of creosote helped keep wood from rot and insect damage, thereby saving railroad companies money by reducing the cost of replacing wood. Creosote is still used to treat wood products today. It can also be used for protection of log homes and marine pilings.
It is a toxic chemical and has been linked to a variety of cancers. This includes esophageal, lung and larynx cancers.
Railroad Cancer Lawsuit associated with creosote are especially high for those working in the wood preservation, coke production and asphalt industries. Workers who perform physical work like rail track maintenance or construction, for instance chimney sweeps, can also be exposed.
Creosote exposure can cause skin irritation, eyelid convulsions and spasms, as along with chemical burns convulsions, chemical burns, and even unconsciousness. It can also cause respiratory problems and lung problems, similar to smoking.
Creosote, a substance derived from coal tar, may be absorbed through skin. It can also be consumed through food that is contaminated or water.
Railroad workers are exposed to creosote when they work close to hazardous waste sites. These sites typically contain huge amounts of creosote that can cause contamination of water, soil, and air.
Another way to expose yourself to creosote for rail employees is working in the wood treatment industry. Many wood products, including fences and lumber, are treated with creosote.
The people who work in these industries are usually not provided with protective equipment, and this exposes them to creosote and toxic substances. This can cause serious health conditions, like cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Creosote, a liquid that is oily with a bitter, burning taste, is an amber-black color. It isn't buoyant in water and has specific gravity of 1.037 to 1.087. It is a mix of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, phenolic compounds, and other chemicals. While coal is the most popular form, different forms of creosote are also available.
Diesel Exhaust
Diesel exhaust is a byproduct of combustion of fuel that is released into the air when you operate vehicles with diesel engines. Diesel exhaust is also released by diesel locomotives and farm equipment, construction equipment generators, as well as other industrial equipment.
Diesel exhaust workers are at a higher risk of developing cancer. This is due to the fact that they are exposed to more of this substance than those who work in other industries.
Certain studies have shown that exposure to diesel exhaust can cause lung cancer in lab animals such as rats. Diesel exhaust can trigger DNA modifications in cells, making them more prone to cancerous growth.
Studies on the effects of diesel exhaust on humans have also demonstrated that prolonged exposure to diesel exhaust can cause numerous health issues that include respiratory disorders such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema and blood system diseases like bladder cancer, larynx (voice box), esophagus, stomach and pancreas. Other studies have connected diesel exhaust to certain cancers of the breast and prostate.
Diesel exhaust is regarded as carcinogens by the American Cancer Society. It is classified as carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer that is part of the World Health Organization.
Workers who work with large machines and engines, like truck drivers and operators of toll booths, could be at a high chance of developing cancer due to diesel exhaust exposure. They may also be at risk when they spend a lot of time in areas where heavy diesel traffic happens (e.g. highways or cities).
In addition, railroad employees who manage and construct tracks and yards may be exposed to diesel fumes while they work near locomotives or other equipment using diesel engines. These fumes pose a particular risk when they get into the cabins of locomotives and other machinery.
A study of laboratory rats revealed that exposure to diesel exhaust resulted in several lung tumors and inflammation. Certain of these tumors were comparable to lung adenocarcinoma. It is a form of cancer that develops when the lungs' cells grow rapidly and become malignant.