Diesel Engine Exhaust Exposure in Relation to Lung Cancer in Long-Haul Truck Drivers: An Eight-Step Concept Analysis.

Abstract

Long-haul truck drivers (LHTDs) face a number of occupational hazards. One such hazard is exposure to diesel engine exhaust (DEE). However, this concept has yet to be analyzed. To address this gap, a concept analysis was conducted to explore the effects of DEE in relation to lung cancer. Walker and Avant's eight-step concept analysis method was utilized: concept selection, analysis purpose, concept uses, defining attributes, model case, borderline case, antecedents and consequences, and empirical referents. PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases were searched for relevant literature. Diesel engine exhaust was identified as a mixture of gases and particulates that are considered carcinogenic. Defining attributes of DEE for truckers include respiratory effects such as decreased peak flow and increased airway resistance leading to symptoms such as a phlegm-producing cough, eye and throat irritation, exacerbation of asthma symptoms, and allergic responses. The identified level of DEE exposure associated with these attributes is 75 μg EC/m3 for 1 to 2 hours daily or a long-term exposure of 10 μg EC/m3. The conceptual definition of DEE in truckers was illustrated by the attributes, antecedents, consequences, model case, and empirical referents. Lung cancer was identified as a significant consequence of occupational DEE exposure for LHTDs. This analysis highlights the need for future research to develop interventions that will safeguard truckers from the adverse health effects of DEE exposure.