MDS Caused by Railroad Negligence
Railroad companies have an obligation to provide a safe work environment. Unfortunately, many train crew members including conductors, engineers, and locomotive engineers have been exposed chemicals like benzene.
Benzene exposure can lead to myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). MDS is a serious disease that causes low blood counts.
Benzene exposure
Benzene may cause a variety of injuries and diseases. It is a petroleum-based chemical found in crude oils, diesel fuel and other chemicals. Benzene is a clear or light yellow liquid that has a sweet scent at room temperature, however it quickly evaporates and turns into dangerous vapors when in the air. The exposure to benzene can occur in a variety of workplace settings. Petroleum and chemical workers are frequently exposed to benzene. Long-term exposure to benzene is also a risk for mechanics working on engines, cars or trucks. People who live and work at military bases where benzene has contaminated the water supply are also at risk.
Due to their continuous exposure to the elements, railroad workers are at a higher risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Diesel fumes are a source of benzene as well as a mixture of chemicals. This exposure can increase the chance of developing these conditions due to the fact that it alters the way cells develop, making them expand beyond their limits. Those diagnosed with AML or MDS may be able to sue their employer under the Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA), if they can prove their exposure to benzene while on the work place was a major contributor in their disease.
Anyone suffering from benzene-related diseases can be able to file FELA claims for funeral and medical costs, and a percentage of their lost wages. lung cancer caused by railroad how to get a settlement resulting from a benzene suit can cover damages that workers are not compensated for and ensure that injured workers receive the maximum amount of money they are entitled to.
Exposure to other chemicals
Railroad workers are often shocked when they discover that their employer's negligence led to their development of cancer or other serious health conditions. These workers may be eligible for compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act. The value of the case will depend on the amount and what type of exposure they've been exposed to chemicals like benzene diesel fumes or other carcinogens.
The condition known as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a type of leukemia. It occurs when bone marrow, which make blood, are altered and produce less blood cells. The condition causes low number of platelets, white blood cells, as well as red blood cells. These cells are essential to carry oxygen, fight infections and clot to stop abnormal or excessive bleeding. If left untreated the condition can develop to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) within one-third of cases.
Multiple studies have proven that high exposures of benzene could cause myelodysplastic disorder. Benzene, a chemical component found in gasoline and diesel fuel, can be found in many petroleum products. It is also used as a solvent in the production of rubbers, plastics, paints, and dyes. Railroad workers are exposed the chemical benzene when working in railway shops, where they handle chemical solvents like mineral spirits, thinners, and paints. In addition, they may be exposed to benzene from the diesel exhaust fumes of trains and in the tanks that fuel them.
Radiation exposure
MDS is a cancer-like condition that occurs when bone marrow that produces blood is altered. Insufficient white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets are the signs. Red blood cells carry oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body, white blood cells protect against infections, and platelets aid in the process of making blood clots and prevent excessive bleeding. One in three MDS patients can develop into acute myeloid cancer, which is a form of aggressive bone marrow tumor.
Long-term exposure to diesel fumes or benzene makes railroad workers at risk of risk of developing MDS. The three-year survival rate of MDS is only 35 percent. MDS is typically diagnosed when people are 60 years old or older. This is a gruesome age at which they should be enjoying retirement. MDS is treatable by chemotherapy, which kills the abnormal blood cells. The best cure for MDS is a stem cell transplant, which replaces the damaged blood-forming cell with healthy ones.