Benzene, Butadiene, and Other Carcinogens on the RailroadMany railroad workers are exposed to carcinogens, including benzene. If you've developed a severe illness such as leukemia, you may be entitled to compensation.Leukemias can occur in the lymphatic or bone marrow. CLL (chronic lymphocytic Leukemia) is one of the four main types of adult leukemia.million settlement  can be absorbed or inhaled through the skin. It is an oil-based by-product that is utilized in the production of resins, plastics, nylons and synthetic fibers. It is also used as a component in dyes and lubricants. It is a carcinogen that can cause leukemia, acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic diseases and lymphomas.Railroad workers are exposed to benzene from the use of mineral spirits, solvents, and degreasers. They are also often exposed to exhaust fumes and diesel fuel when working on freight cars, locomotives and other railway equipment. Railroad workers are at a higher risk of developing chronic lymphocytic cancer due to this exposure.Numerous epidemiologic studies have shown an increase in the leukemia risk due to increasing exposure to benzene. A meta-analysis of 22 studies has provided a summary of the impact of benzene on AML, Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia(ALL) and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia(CLL).The meta-analysis shows that exposure to occupational benzene increases the risk of developing these leukemias. The results for AML, CLL and ALL were weaker. This could be due to the lower reporting rate for these subgroups, in addition due to the lack of dose-response with the increase in exposure. The meta-analysis did not find evidence of publication bias.AsbestosAsbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that has been used in a multitude of industrial products. Its resistance to fire, heat, and corrosion was a major reason for its use for railroad locomotives as well as other equipment. Asbestos poses a threat to those who handle it. If exposed to the material, asbestos fibers can break down into microscopically thin strands that become airborne. They can then be inhaled and can become lodged in a person's lungs. These can cause a number of serious illnesses, including mesothelioma.When asbestos fibers are introduced into the lungs of an individual, they can irritate the lung's lining. This irritation could lead to an increase in collagen which becomes harder over time and creates pleural plaques. This condition can cause chest pain and trouble breathing.Fibrosis is yet another form of lung damage that could be caused by asbestos exposure. This scar tissue interferes in the ability to breathe. If left untreated this condition can turn fatal.Contact an FELA lawyer right away if are a railroad employee who has been diagnosed with a health issue caused by asbestos. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you file an application for compensation. To win a compensation claim you will need to prove that exposure to harmful substances while on the job resulted in your illness. FELA lawyers often work with industrial safety experts, also known as industrial hygienists who review the materials in the railroad workplace and determine whether the railroad company followed proper safety guidelines for employees.Diesel ExhaustDiesel exhaust is among the many carcinogenic fumes as well as substances that railroad workers are exposed to on a regular basis. Excessive exposure to diesel exhaust has been linked to lung cancer, as well as other serious occupational diseases among railroad workers, including mesothelioma and pulmonary fibrosis. Inhaling particulates and engine exhaust could lead to long-term health issues that are difficult to treat.Locomotives are powered by diesel fuel, and the locomotive cab is a cramped space with limited ventilation. Railroad workers may be exposed to diesel exhaust by breathing it in the cab, as well as drag it back onto their clothing and on themselves after they leave the cab. Diesel exhaust is also a problem for railroad workers who work in yards or shops because they are near to locomotives.Diesel exhaust is believed to be a source of carcinogenic and mutagenic compounds that can be absorbed into bloodstream. These chemicals can alter the bone marrow and blood and cause damage to the respiratory tract. In  bnsf settlement  which tracked several hundred workers who were frequently exposed to diesel exhaust, researchers found that those with the longest exposure had the highest risk of developing lung cancer.Even after adjusting for smoking and other causes lung cancer mortality was significantly higher among railroad workers exposed to diesel exhaust.  csx settlement  is investigating claims from railroad workers who have been sickened by exposure to diesel exhaust and other industrial toxic substances.