Proportionate mortality study of unionized maintenance of way railroad workers

Abstract Background Railroad maintenance of way (MOW) workers are exposed to many workplace hazards, including diesel fuel and exhaust, ballast (silica) dust, asbestos, solvents, herbicides, welding fumes, heavy rolling equipment, vibration extreme weather. Aims Due the number excess deaths we found in a companion standardized mortality ratio (SMR) study for union members <65 years, hypothesized that these may have elevated risks among all ages chronic conditions. Methods Proportionate ratios (PMRs) were calculated 37 661 male MOW 20 older who Brotherhood Maintenance Way Employes Division (BMWED). A data set was submitted National Death Index (NDI) identify decedents determine cause death died between 1979 2014. The CDC WONDER database used expected US males. Results For certain diseases cancers SMR PMR findings parallel excesses. Examples include septicaemia anaemia; diabetes; obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); nephritis; transportation accidents. Among cancers, oesophageal, stomach, colorectal, lung, prostate, kidney situ cancers. Two not replicated assessment—Alzheimer’s Parkinson’s disease. Conclusions suggest some excesses from elevated, which adds support their being consistently raised BMWED members. shared causes studies should be focused on future prevention surveillance activities.