| Description | Circumstances of exposure | Tumour sites (or types) for which there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel engine exhaust is a complex mixture of both gaseous and particulate components, containing cancer-causing substances including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), benzene, 1,3-butadiene, formaldehyde, ethylene oxide, and metals. The composition and quantity of the emissions from an engine depend mainly on the type and condition of the engine, fuel composition and additives, operating conditions, and emission control devices. |
The primary source of exposure is engine exhausts due to the use of diesel engines in cars, trucks, locomotives, and other motorized machinery. |
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- How relevant are chemical cancer-causing substances in the workplace and in the general environment?
- Which are the most important chemical substances in the environment that may cause cancer, and which cancers do they cause?
- Is there adequate control of cancer-causing chemical substances in the environment? Am I adequately protected?
- Is there any “safe dose” of exposure to cancer-causing chemical substances?
- What actions can I take to protect myself and my family?
- I have heard about other chemical substances, such as those present in some plastics that may cause cancer. Should I be concerned?
- Should I be concerned if I live in or close to an industrial area?
- In which occupations is there an increased cancer risk, and which are the most important types of cancers?
- Do chemical substances in the workplace interact with one another or with lifestyle factors?
- How do I know whether my cancer is caused by chemical substances in the workplace?
- Is there adequate control of workplace cancer-causing substances, and what actions can I take to protect myself and my family?
- Is it possible to implement cancer prevention and health promotion measures in the workplace?
- Does stress at work cause cancer?