Diesel fuel is used in combustion engines that emit exhaust gasses and microscopic particulates. We’ve all probably experienced short-term exposure to diesel exhaust fumes and the headaches, dizziness, coughing, itchy and watery eyes and respiratory issues that come along with it. If you already have asthma, breathing diesel fumes can make it worse. If you don’t have asthma already, you can develop it.
Long-Term Exposure
As per our diesel exhaust poisoning lawyer, it’s the protracted and long-term exposure to diesel exhaust gasses that can lead to serious health problems and fatalities. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is part of the World Health Organization. Previously, the IARC’s position was that diesel fumes were a possible carcinogen. After additional studies, it now classifies diesel exhaust fumes as carcinogenic to humans, particularly in the context of lung cancer. Both the U.S. National Toxicology Program and the Environmental Protection Agency point at diesel exhaust fumes as likely to be carcinogenic to humans. Other health issues involve cardiovascular and cardiopulmonary disorders. A new study also provides strong evidence that even 30 minutes’ worth of diesel fumes affect brain function.
Who is at Risk?
The particle matter in diesel exhaust fumes can reach deep into our lungs. Anybody who works with diesel-powered vehicles or railroads places himself or herself at risk for lung or bladder cancer. These fumes can even accumulate in places like warehouses that use diesel-powered forklifts, toll booths, mines and ship engine rooms. With nearly all school buses running on diesel fuel, many children are exposed to diesel exhaust fumes, too. Even people who live near expressways and highways are at risk.
Along with lung cancer, prolonged exposure to diesel exhaust fumes has been liked to other diseases and disorders that threaten the lives of workers. If you or a family member developed a serious illness after lengthy exposure to diesel exhaust fumes, contact Diesel Injury Law online to arrange for a free consultation and case review with a diesel exhaust poisoning lawyer from our offices.
