Railroad Settlement and Esophageal Cancer
Rail workers are frequently exposed to cancer-causing compounds in their work environment. Some workers develop mesothelioma, lung cancer and other diseases as a consequence of their exposure.
Our lawyers obtained a summary judgment in a matter that was heard before the United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama on behalf of a large railroad company. Plaintiff claimed that his cancer was caused by exposure to creosote, diesel exhaust and asbestos.
Risk Factors
The type of cancer that develops in a person's esophagus is determined by various factors. These risk factors may be able to be changed in some cases, but others like the history of a family member or age can't. The most common form of esophageal carcinoma begins in the flat cells, or squamous cell, that constitute the majority of the lining that covers the esophagus. This cancer is more prevalent among men and black people however the rate is decreasing worldwide.
The esophagus contains glandular cells that secrete mucus, which aids in the passage of food through the mouth into the stomach. These cells are located near the stomach in the lower part of the esophagus. The most prevalent type of esophageal tumors in these cells are adenocarcinomas. They are more prevalent among men and black individuals, but the trend is declining in the United States.
A person's esophageal cancer risk increases by the amount of time spent smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol. Drinking heavily for a long period increases the risk of developing squamous-cell cancer. This includes brewed tea in Northern China and Brandie whisky in the US and Europe. Beer is also associated with the disease in Southern Africa and Latin America.
Railroad workers are exposed contaminants that increase the risk of esophageal carcinoma. This includes solvents used to clean equipment, herbicides applied on rail tracks to prevent the growth of weeds, lead paints on railway bridges diesel exhaust fumes, and silica in industrial products. Creosote's benzene, a toxic chemical used to treat railroad ties can also contribute to this cancer.
Diagnosis
A timely diagnosis can help to improve the chance of survival. This is because esophageal cancer can be more treatable if it is in the earlier stages and has not spread to other organs. Early signs include difficulty swallowing, a loss of appetite and weight loss, hoarseness or coughing in the chest, chest pain, and an impression that food particles are stuck in the throat (dysphagia).
A physician can detect esophageal cancer using imaging tests. These tests could include an upper-gastrointestinal examination with a barium drink. This test involves swallowing the harmless chalky liquid to cover the surface of the esophagus, making it visible on X-rays. The doctor might also request blood tests to test for anemia, or to determine how well the liver functions.
Railroad workers who have been diagnosed with esophageal carcinoma may be entitled to compensation from the railroad companies that exposed them to toxic substances at work. A trained railroad esophageal carcinoma attorney could review the circumstances of a client and explain the rights they have to claim financial compensation accordance with the Federal Employers Liability Act.
An experienced FELA attorney could start working to collect evidence to prove that a railroad worker's stomach cancer was the result of the exposure they received from asbestos, diesel exhaust fumes and other chemicals. A lawyer can also assist determine the appropriate compensation for the economic and other damages.
Treatment
Railroad workers are exposed many dangerous substances, including asbestos, diesel exhaust and creosote. These substances can irritate the lining of the throat and cause esophageal cancer. Railroad workers are at a higher risk of developing illnesses such as mesothelioma and cancer of the lung.
The esophagus or hollow muscular tube, connects the mouth with the stomach. It transports liquids and food items that have been swallowed and then to the digestive tract. Esophageal carcinoma develops in cells that are found in the lining of the stomach, also known as mucosa.
Esophageal cancer is treated in different ways. Surgery is usually combined with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.
For stage I cancers, doctors can opt for endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Both procedures are minimally invasive and do not require the removal of the esophagus. When they are performed, doctors use an endoscope for removing precancerous tissues and examining for indications of cancer.
Doctors can use chemo, or a combination of chemo-radiation, for stage II cancers. Chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells. Radiation utilizes X-rays with high energy instead of a similar principle to destroy cancerous cells inside the esophagus. If the tumor is located in the upper portion of the stomach, certain patients can be treated with chemo rather than radiation.
Prognosis
People who have esophageal carcinoma that is not spreading are generally thought to be healthy. This is particularly true if cancer is discovered in its earliest stages and treated promptly.
railroad settlement for a person is based on the type of cancer, and the stage at when they were diagnosed. A person with squamous-cell cancer that isn't spreading is likely to have a better chance of survival than someone with adenocarcinoma.
In some instances doctors might be able to eliminate the tumor through surgery. Resection is the term used to describe this. It is especially prevalent in squamous cells and Adenocarcinomas which have not spread.
Railroad workers who have been diagnosed with cancer or other chronic illness connected with their work could be eligible for financial compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act. If you suspect that your condition is linked to exposure at work contact an attorney representing railroad workers as soon as possible. Under FELA the law, you have three years to submit an claim. If you didn't know your cancer was related to your job at the time of your diagnosis, the statute of limitation could be extended. A lawyer who is experienced in FELA cases can review your case and determine whether you should accept a settlement offer.