The International Agency for Cancer Research has classified diesel exhaust as a definite cancer-causing material. It is so carcinogenic that this division of the World Health Organization has placed it in the highest possible category.
These decisions are not made lightly; only after extensive assessment of all available evidence was the decision made to announce that diesel exhaust does cause cancer in humans. Many sufferers are turning to a diesel injury lawyer for assistance in getting compensation.
How Do Diesel Fumes Cause Cancer?
When diesel fuel burns in the combustion chamber of an engine, it releases two cancer-causing things: soot and chemicals. There are three ways that these materials can cause cancer.
* The chemicals and hydrocarbons can damage DNA in lung cells, which is known to lead to cancer.
* The microscopic soot particles can become embedded in lung tissue, which causes inflammation. When nearby cells are affected by mutated cells, this can increase the likelihood of spreading.
* The carcinogenic effect of diesel exhaust is caused by a combination of these two factors.
Major Cancers Caused by Diesel Exhaust
The primary cancer derived from exposure to diesel exhaust is lung cancer. Studies show that workers in industries, such as railroad, long-haul trucking, mining, and more are at an elevated risk of developing lung cancer. Sufficient data has been collected to show that diesel exhaust poses a substantial health risk.
Although lung cancer is the main cancer, other studies show links between diesel exhaust and cancer of the bladder, larynx, and stomach, as well as the esophagus and pancreas. Considerable research is ongoing in these areas to prove the initial findings.
The government is well-aware of the problem; programs are being established to reduce diesel emissions. Unfortunately, for many, this awareness comes too late, and the only recourse for people living with cancer is to hire a lawyer to fight for adequate compensation.
It is a fact that diesel exhaust causes cancer. If you are a sufferer, contact a knowledgeable lawyer at Hughes Law Offices. Visit the firm at https://www.dieselinjurylaw.com. Like us on our facebook page.
