Tribal-FERST Issue Profile: Diesel Exhaust
Diesel exhaust is a mixture of gases and particles (particulates) produced during combustion of diesel fuel in the engines of cars, trucks, buses, locomotives, marine vessels, and heavy off-road construction equipment.
The most common exposure pathway is inhalation of air containing diesel particulate matter. Based on human and laboratory studies, there is considerable evidence that diesel exhaust is a likely carcinogen.
Short-term exposure to diesel exhaust may cause eye, nose, throat, and lung irritation; neurological effects such as lightheadedness; cough, and; nausea. It can also worsen asthma. Long-term exposure in animal inhalation studies have resulted in lung inflammation and immunological effects. Human epidemiological studies have shown an association between diesel exhaust exposure and increased lung cancer rates.
Learn more about diesel exhaust by exploring the links below.
Sources
General Information
Environmental Concentrations, Human Exposures, and Health Risks
Interested in learning more about a specific location? Type an address, city or ZIP code into the box on the right side of the map below. Click on the map to see a pop-up with information about ambient concentration, exposure concentration and cancer risk for the chosen location(s). Navigate to the next feature by clicking the small arrow(s) on the top right side of the pop-up.
Exposure and Risk Reduction Options
Strategies Implemented By Other Communities
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