Test: How Much Do You Know About Railroad Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

The Dangers of Railroad AML

Acute myeloid Leukemia, Railroad AML or AML is a kind of cancer that grows in the bone marrow. It has been linked to exposure to benzene containing fuels, solvents, paints and degreasers.

Rail workers who develop AML and have a an argument to believe that their work-related exposures caused it, may file FELA claims. OSMRE collects and distributes AML fees every year.

Benzene

A chemical byproduct of distillation of petroleum the benzene chemical is a risky and toxic solvent. It can cause leukemia as well as other blood-related illnesses when inhaled, eaten or absorbed through the skin. It has been linked with leukemia, aplastic angiopathy and other blood-related illnesses in laboratory animals.

In the past the railroad industry utilized a variety of petroleum-based solvents, which typically contained high levels benzene. Some of the most well-known products included Liquid Wrench, Gumout, SafetyKleen parts washers, Champion brake cleaner and CRC. Numerous studies have demonstrated that long-term exposure to these hazardous solvents significantly increases the risk of AML and other blood-related disorders.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects bone marrow as well as the cells that produce white blood cells. It affects myeloid cells within the bone marrow that differentiate into various types of white blood cell.

AML is known to be caused by benzene exposure and coal tar creosote exposures. Our medical experts can detect genetic damage in AML and link it to previous exposures to benzene. Other studies have demonstrated a link between benzene and other types leukemia, like acute lymphocytic or chronic lymphocytic. These leukemias all are linked to B cells and the formation lymphocytes in the bone marrow.

Creosote

Creosote, which is a mix of solutions containing coal tar, is used to protect and preserve wooden structures like railroad posts and utility ties from insects and water. It is a renowned carcinogen, and has been associated with cancers of the testicles and skin as well as acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In addition, creosote is an endocrine poison that can be absorbed from treated wood into soil and water.

The chemicals found in creosote include hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and phenols. PAHs are highly water soluble and can accumulate on bodies of fish and birds. Coal-tar creosote is a black, oily liquid that may contain as many as 10,000 different chemicals. It can also be found in hazardous disposal sites and can be taken in through the skin or inhaled.

Workers who work with and burn creosote wood are especially vulnerable to health issues. For instance, the creosote-treated wood which is burned in backyard fire pits has PAHs and phenol which can contaminate the air. Workers who handle or burn creosote-treated railroad ties are also at risk of exposure due to the toxins present in the creosote are released into the air.

Another chemical that is hazardous, Benzene that is used in maintenance on railroads, is also a risk. This odorless chemical is a known carcinogen, and is associated with mesothelioma and lung cancer. The chemical is present in degreasers, solvents gasoline, diesel exhaust and paint. It can also be found in brake pads and clutches as well as wallboards, wallboards and other industrial products. It has also been linked to an increased risk of AML. Our experts can spot genetic damage in AML which is in line with exposure to benzene.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals. It is resistant to heat, chemicals and electrical energy. This makes it popular for use in construction materials and parts for cars. But asbestos has a dark side. The microscopic fibers that make up asbestos pose a risk when inhaled. This can cause serious lung diseases including mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer.

Benzene is a dangerous chemical that railroad workers are exposed to on a regular basis. It is present in diesel exhaust as well as various solvents. It's also associated with leukemia and other cancers. A study conducted in 2016 found that just five years of exposure to benzene increases the risk of developing AML.

Asbestos is a different contaminant found on railroad tracks. It was previously used extensively in military applications as well as by railroads because of its ability to prevent fires and electrical failures. Many veterans of the United States Armed Forces were exposed to asbestos before it was recognized as a health hazard. Because of their exposure to asbestos, thousands of veterans have developed mesothelioma or other illnesses. They may be eligible for compensation through trust funds. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, download our free Veterans Compensation Guide today to find out more about your options for financial assistance.

Trichloroethylene

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a colorless, volatile liquid that is easily evaporated into the air. It is utilized as a solvent in order to remove grease from equipment made of metal and is also an ingredient in other chemicals. TCE is a suspected carcinogen with evidence that it causes liver cancer in people and malignant lymphoma (a blood cancer) in mice. TCE can also cause kidney damage as well as damage to the central nervous system, respiratory and skin reactions.

TCE is found in the soil and around industrial sites, where it was produced either for Railroad AML use or to be discarded. It can also leach out of underground storage tanks into groundwater and drinking water sources. If the drinking water in your home is contaminated with trichloroethylene, you can minimize the danger of exposure to your family by using a well-maintained water supply that is clean and safe, as well as by taking steps to minimize dust and dirt buildup in your house.

During their work, many railroad workers have been exposed trichloroethylene as well as other solvents of chemical origin. Along with benzene's exposure and benzene, exposure to these solvents is associated with AML. Experts can now identify genetic damage that is related to exposures to trichloroethylene in the past of AML patients. Our lawyers have extensive experience representing railroaders suffering from AML caused by trichloroethylene creosote, and coal tar. We can help you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Call us to schedule your free consultation.