World Health Organization Says Diesel Fumes Cause Lung Cancer

The World Health Organization has issued a statement saying that diesel fumes cause lung cancer at a rate even higher than second-hand smoke. The WHO now ranks diesel fumes as a 'known carcinogen.'

This does not really affect industrialized nations who have limits on diesel emissions. However, in undeveloped nations where these provisions are not in place, there is clearly a link between being exposed to diesel fumes and lung cancer. 

The American Cancer Society plans to issue a statement with the same conclusion at its next meeting.

“I don’t think it’s bad to have a diesel car. I don’t think it’s good to breathe its exhaust. I’m not concerned about people who walk past a diesel vehicle, I’m a little concerned about people like toll collectors, and I’m very concerned about people like miners, who work where exhaust is concentrated," said Dr. Otis W. Brawley, Director of the American Cancer Society. 

Three government agencies in the US classify diesel exhaust as a 'likely carcinogen.'

The WHO also said that diesel fumes may cause bladder cancer as well. 

Because modern diesel engines using low sulfur diesel produce about 98% fewer particulates than an unrestricted diesel engine, this will likely not affect vehicles in the future, and drivers in countries with these regulations should not be concerned. The WHO is more concerned with miners who are exposed to concentrated diesel fumes. 

Source: New York Times