UN re-classifies diesel engine exhaust as carcinogenic

More than a decade ago, the United Nations classified diesel engine exhaust as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” The UN health agency recently re-classified diesel engine exhaust as “carcinogenic to humans.” The re-classification was announced by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is a part of the World Health Organization (WHO) after a week-long meeting with international experts.
The re-classification was based on sufficient evidence linking an increased risk for lung cancer with exposure to diesel engine exhaust. “The scientific evidence was compelling and the working group’s conclusion was unanimous: diesel engine exhaust causes lung cancer in humans,” said Christopher Portier, chairperson of the IARC working group which reviewed the evidence. In a press release, Portier emphasized that “Given the additional health impacts from diesel particulates, exposure to this mixture of chemicals should be reduced worldwide.”
IARC said large populations are exposed to diesel exhaust daily, whether through the ambient air, and in their work environment. Motor vehicles and others such as trains and ships, as well as power generators, are major producers of diesel exhaust. After reviewing the evidence, IARC’s working group concluded that there was sufficient evidence indicating that aside from causing lung cancer in humans, there is also positive association with an increased risk of bladder cancer from diesel exhaust.
“While IARC’s remit is to establish the evidence-base for regulatory decisions at national and international level, today’s conclusion sends a strong signal that public health action is warranted,” said Christopher Wild, director of IARC.
“This emphasis is needed globally, including among the more vulnerable populations in developing countries where new technology and protective measures may otherwise take many years to be adopted.” (June 13, 2012)