Railroad Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Lawsuit [2025 Guide]

Non‑Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is a type of blood cancer that originates in the lymphatic and immune systems.

In the railroad industry, workers may face occupational exposure to carcinogenic agents like benzene, pesticides, and diesel exhaust; substances scientifically linked to an increased risk of NHL.

Meta‑analyses show that occupational benzene exposure is associated with approximately a 27% higher risk of developing NHL, especially in industrial occupations over long durations.

While diesel exhaust exposure has not consistently demonstrated elevated NHL risk in epidemiological studies, prolonged contact with diesel fumes remains a concern due to known immunotoxic and carcinogenic components in the exhaust mixture.

Benzene and pesticide exposure can lead to genetic damage, immune suppression, and chromosomal abnormalities that promote lymphoma formation.

Because railroad employees often work in enclosed yards and maintenance shops with limited ventilation, the risk of long‑term exposure increases significantly.

Even short‑term exposure to high concentrations (especially without respiratory protection) can accumulate over time and contribute to a cancer diagnosis of NHL.

Affected workers and their families may pursue a railroad workers cancer lawsuit when employer negligence allowed repeated exposure to dangerous substances such as solvents, fuel emissions, and herbicides used in track maintenance.

Routes of exposure that may lead to NHL include:

• Inhalation of benzene vapors and diesel fumes in engine rooms, yards, and repair shops
• Dermal contact with benzene-containing solvents, degreasers, and pesticides
• Ingestion through contaminated hands or food during work breaks in zones with chemical residue
• Ambient exposure in poorly ventilated workspaces where toxic chemicals linger over days or weeks

These exposure pathways underscore how sustained contact with toxic chemicals in railroad settings can elevate the risk of developing NHL.

Legal claims must link occupational exposure to a confirmed NHL diagnosis and demonstrate how the railroad company failed to implement essential protections for exposed workers.

Railroad Job Roles Linked to High Levels of Benzene Exposure & NHL Diagnoses

Many job roles in the railroad industry placed workers in direct contact with toxic substances, particularly benzene, a known carcinogen linked to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL).

Railroad workers involved in fueling operations, equipment maintenance, and track treatment were frequently exposed to benzene-containing products or diesel exhaust.

Jobs that involved cleaning solvents, degreasers, and herbicides often led to long-term exposure, even in cases where workers weren’t aware of the dangers.

Without proper respiratory protection or hazard warnings, the risk of developing serious illnesses like NHL increased significantly.

Railroad job roles commonly linked to high levels of benzene exposure and NHL diagnoses include:

• Locomotive mechanics – worked with solvents, degreasers, and engine fluids during repair and inspection
• Fueling station workers – handled diesel fuel and were regularly exposed to vapors and spills
• Carmen (railcar inspectors) – performed inspections and maintenance using benzene-containing cleaning products
• Track maintenance workers – applied herbicides and pesticides to control vegetation along tracks
• Engineers and conductors – operated in enclosed cabs where prolonged diesel fume exposure was common
• Roundhouse workers – serviced engines in poorly ventilated areas with heavy chemical use
• Boilermakers and machinists – worked with industrial lubricants, degreasers, and adhesives
• Cleaning crews – used industrial cleaning agents with benzene as a primary solvent
• Signal maintainers – sometimes handled oil-based or solvent-treated components
• Electricians and welders – worked in proximity to fumes and heat-activated chemicals

Each of these positions could result in sustained benzene exposure, creating serious long-term health consequences for affected workers.

Understanding these roles is critical in evaluating the merit of a railroad workers cancer lawsuit and proving employer negligence in toxic exposure cases.

Non‑Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is a type of blood cancer affecting the lymphatic system and white blood cells, with multiple subtypes and varied progression patterns.

Large-scale reviews of occupational studies (including data on workers exposed to benzene) consistently report an increased risk of NHL, with many studies showing statistically significant associations between benzene exposure and lymphoma outcomes.

Although diesel exhaust has not shown a definitive causal link to NHL in cohort data, substantial evidence demonstrates that chronic exposure to engine emissions may impair immune function and contribute to overall cancer risk.

In the railroad industry, personnel are routinely exposed to toxic chemicals such as benzene, solvents, diesel fumes, pesticides, and herbicides: each capable of causing cellular damage over long‑term exposure.

Railroad employees working in shops, yards, fueling stations, or performing track maintenance may be exposed to these dangerous substances without adequate ventilation or protective equipment.

These repeated exposures can lead to alterations in the bone marrow and lymphatic system, increasing the likelihood of developing NHL years after initial contact.

Importantly, many cases show NHL developing only after prolonged exposure, occurring decades before symptoms emerge, which complicates both medical diagnosis and legal investigation.

Identifying the occupational source of exposure is central to establishing a railroad workers cancer lawsuit, particularly when workers were frequently exposed without being warned or protected.

Understanding NHL’s link to railroad occupational exposure is essential for recognizing potential risk and pursuing legal action.

The combination of benzene and pesticide exposure found in many rail jobs sets the stage for long-term health outcomes that may qualify for a legal claim when employer negligence allowed for unsafe conditions.

Sub-Types of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is not a single disease, but a group of blood cancers that arise from lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell.

These sub-types are categorized based on how quickly they grow (indolent vs. aggressive) and whether they originate in B-cells or T-cells.

Each subtype varies in symptoms, treatment options, and prognosis.

Certain subtypes have been observed more frequently in individuals with occupational exposures, including those in the railroad industry.

Common sub-types of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma include:

• Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL): The most common and aggressive form; often linked to rapid symptom development and requires immediate treatment.
• Follicular Lymphoma: A slower-growing subtype that can transform into more aggressive forms over time.
• Mantle Cell Lymphoma: A rarer, aggressive form that originates from B-cells in the mantle zone of lymph nodes.
• Burkitt Lymphoma: A fast-growing lymphoma often seen in younger individuals and associated with immune system compromise.
• Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma: A diverse group of aggressive cancers that arise from mature T-cells.
• Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: A form that primarily affects the skin but can spread to lymph nodes or other organs.
• Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A slow-growing form closely related to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Complications of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) can lead to a range of serious medical complications due to its impact on the immune system, bone marrow function, and surrounding organs.

As malignant lymphocytes proliferate, they may infiltrate various tissues, impairing organ function and increasing susceptibility to infections.

Treatment-related complications can also arise, including immunosuppression, organ toxicity, and long-term cellular damage.

In advanced or aggressive subtypes of NHL, complications may progress rapidly and significantly reduce a patient’s quality of life and life expectancy.

Complications of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma may include:

• Recurrent infections – Due to weakened immune response and reduced white blood cell counts.
• Anemia and fatigue – Resulting from decreased red blood cell production in the bone marrow.
• Leukopenia or neutropenia – Critically low white blood cell counts increase infection risk.
• Organ compression or failure – When enlarged lymph nodes press against the lungs, kidneys, liver, or intestines.
• Tumor lysis syndrome – A rapid breakdown of cancer cells during treatment that can overload the kidneys.
• Neurological complications – If lymphoma spreads to the central nervous system, it can cause seizures or cognitive decline.
• Bone marrow failure – Leading to pancytopenia and increased bleeding or bruising.
• Secondary cancers – Especially after radiation or chemotherapy exposure.
• Pleural effusion or ascites – Fluid accumulation in the lungs or abdomen due to lymphatic obstruction.
• Psychological distress – Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common in patients facing chronic or aggressive illness.

Types of Cancers Related to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is a diverse group of blood cancers that arise from abnormal lymphocytes, and it shares biological features and risk profiles with several other hematologic and immune-related malignancies.

In many cases, individuals diagnosed with NHL may also be at risk for (or misdiagnosed with) other cancers involving the lymphatic system, bone marrow, or blood-forming tissues.

Occupational exposure to toxic chemicals like benzene, pesticides, and diesel exhaust has been linked to an increased risk of multiple cancers closely associated with NHL.

These cancers often share common symptoms, including lymph node enlargement, chronic fatigue, and bone marrow suppression, making thorough diagnostic work critical.

Cancer diagnoses related to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma include:

• Hodgkin’s Lymphoma – Another type of lymphatic cancer, distinct from NHL but often confused due to overlapping symptoms and lymph node involvement.
• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) – A rapidly progressing blood cancer affecting immature lymphocytes, often seen in individuals with shared risk factors.
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) – A slow-growing cancer of the bone marrow and blood that can evolve from or resemble certain indolent NHL subtypes.
• Multiple Myeloma – A malignancy of plasma cells that, like NHL, can arise due to long-term immune stimulation and chemical exposure.
• Primary Central Nervous System (CNS) Lymphoma – A rare and aggressive NHL subtype that develops in the brain or spinal cord.
• Cutaneous T-cell Lymphomas (e.g., Mycosis Fungoides) – Lymphomas that manifest in the skin but share cellular origins with other forms of NHL.
• Waldenström Macroglobulinemia – A rare B-cell lymphoma marked by excessive production of IgM antibodies, often linked to similar exposures.
• Hairy Cell Leukemia – An uncommon chronic B-cell leukemia that can be triggered by environmental or occupational toxins.
• Secondary Myelodysplastic Syndromes – These pre-leukemic conditions may develop in NHL survivors after prolonged chemotherapy or toxic exposure.

Treatment Options for NHL

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) treatment varies based on the subtype, stage, and overall health of the patient, but it typically involves a combination of systemic and targeted therapies.

Railroad personnel diagnosed with NHL due to toxic exposure may require aggressive treatment protocols, especially if the cancer has spread or is linked to high-risk environmental factors.

Advances in oncology have introduced more precise therapies that attack cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue.

In cases tied to occupational exposures, treatment decisions may also consider long-term health implications of repeated toxic contact.

Common treatment options for NHL include:

• Chemotherapy – Often the first-line treatment, using cytotoxic drugs to destroy rapidly dividing lymphoma cells.
• Radiation Therapy – Targeted radiation is used to shrink lymph node tumors or residual disease following chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy (e.g., monoclonal antibodies) – Agents like rituximab bind to cancerous B-cells and trigger immune system attack.
• Targeted Therapy – Drugs designed to interfere with specific pathways critical to lymphoma cell survival and growth.
• Stem Cell Transplantation – High-dose chemo followed by reinfusion of healthy stem cells to regenerate bone marrow.
• CAR T-Cell Therapy – A newer form of immunotherapy that re-engineers a patient’s T-cells to recognize and destroy lymphoma cells.
• Maintenance Therapy – Long-term, low-dose treatments used to prevent relapse in indolent or recurrent cases.

Qualifying for a railroad Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) lawsuit depends on your employment history, the nature of your exposure, and whether safety protocols were followed.

If you were a railroad worker regularly exposed to diesel exhaust fumes and other toxins and later developed NHL, you may have grounds for a legal claim under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).

This federal law allows railroad employees to seek compensation when an occupational illness results from a railroad company’s negligence.

That includes failure to warn workers about toxic exposures, inadequate safety measures, or violations of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.

The legal process involves proving that your employer’s negligence contributed to your illness—even in part.

Your employment status, job duties, and length of exposure to hazardous substances will play a critical role in determining your eligibility.

If evidence shows that your workplace exposures caused or significantly contributed to your cancer diagnosis, you may be entitled to compensation.

Consulting with an experienced toxic exposure attorney can help determine whether your case meets the legal standards for filing a FELA claim.

Gather Evidence for a Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Lawsuit

Building a strong Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) lawsuit begins with gathering clear and thorough evidence that connects workplace exposures to the development of your illness.

This includes documentation of prolonged contact with crude oil, diesel exhaust, and other carcinogens linked to developing cancer.

Agencies like the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) provide critical insights into occupational risk factors that may support your claim.

Medical records, work history, and exposure documentation all serve as key components in linking your diagnosis to your job.

Examples of important evidence include:

• Medical records showing a confirmed diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and treatment history
• Employment records indicating job roles, locations, and duration of exposure to hazardous substances
• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) that detail the chemical hazards present in your work environment
• Expert medical opinions linking NHL to specific occupational exposures
• Witness statements from coworkers familiar with your duties and exposure conditions
• Records of crude oil or diesel fuel handling in your workplace
• Environmental testing reports or employer documentation acknowledging toxic substances onsite

Damages in Railroad Workers Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Cases

In railroad workers’ Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cases, damages refer to the financial and personal losses suffered as a result of cancer caused by occupational exposure.

Workers who developed NHL after prolonged exposure to diesel exhaust or other cancer-causing substances may be eligible for compensation through railroad cancer claims.

These damages are meant to address the wide-ranging consequences of living with a serious illness—both economic and emotional.

Courts and juries may evaluate the severity of your diagnosis, the impact on your daily life, and any future medical or financial needs when determining appropriate compensation.

Potential damages in a Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma railroad case may include:

• Medical expenses related to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care
• Lost wages from time off work due to illness or recovery
• Loss of future earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous job
• Pain and suffering from physical, emotional, and psychological distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life due to reduced physical ability or lifestyle changes
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members if the worker has died from NHL
• Punitive damages in cases involving especially reckless or negligent employer behavior

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma or another cancer after working in the railroad industry, you are not alone, and you may have legal options.

Prolonged exposure to diesel exhaust, benzene, and other cancer-causing substances has put countless railroad workers at risk, often without proper warnings or protections.

At Gianaris Trial Lawyers, we are committed to investigating these cases thoroughly, building strong claims under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), and fighting for the compensation our clients deserve.

Our experienced team of railroad cancer attorneys understands the industries, exposures, and legal strategies involved in these complex cases.

Whether you’re seeking justice for a recent diagnosis or on behalf of a deceased loved one, we offer skilled, compassionate advocacy every step of the way.

Contact Gianaris Trial Lawyers today for a free confidential consultation to discuss your railroad cancer claim.

You can also use the chat feature on this page to find out if you qualify for a railroad cancer lawsuit instantly.