Diesel fumes linked to cancer

Exhaust fumes from diesel engines do cause cancer, a panel of experts working for the World Health Organisation says.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has concluded that the exhausts were definitely a cause of lung cancer and may also cause tumours in the bladder.

It based the findings on research in high-risk workers such as miners, railway workers and truck drivers. However, the panel said everyone should try to reduce their exposure to diesel exhaust fumes.

Dr Christopher Portier, chair of the IARC working group, said: “The scientific evidence was compelling and the working group’s conclusion was unanimous: diesel engine exhaust causes lung cancer in humans.

“Given the additional health impacts from diesel particulates, exposure to this mixture of chemicals should be reduced worldwide.”

Cancer Research UK said employers and workers should take appropriate action to minimise exposure to diesel fumes in the workplace.

http://templatelab.com/iarc_press_release_213_E/

www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-18415532