As previously mentioned on this blog, there is scientific evidence that asbestos exposure combined with cigarette smoking results in a much greater risk of cancer than either risk factor alone. We have also discussed the effects of smoking cessation (quitting smoking) on lung cancer risk. A study from this past spring combines the two to discuss asbestos, asbestosis, smoking and smoking cessation in the development of lung cancer. To read the study, you may purchase a copy from: http://www.atsjournals.org/doi/pdf/10.1164/rccm.201302-0257OC
Many railroad workers have been exposed to asbestos throughout their careers. Many railroad workers also smoked and/or were surrounded by secondhand smoke from coworkers. While the risks of developing lung cancer from asbestos remain, quitting smoking now can reduce the synergistic effect from the combined risks. For those who may have been exposed to asbestos it is essential to quit smoking as soon as possible. For help quitting, discuss your options with your doctor or visit: http://www.nysmokefree.com/ or http://www.smokefree.gov/
If you are a railroad worker who was exposed to asbestos, diesel fumes or other toxic substances at work, and you have been diagnosed with cancer, please contact us for information on your legal rights, even if you currently smoke or previously smoked cigarettes. Attorneys at Doran & Murphy represent railroad workers who have developed cancer from occupational exposures to asbestos and diesel exhaust, even if the worker smoked cigarettes.
