Benzene

Benzene is a flammable liquid that is colorless and smells sweet. When exposed to air, it evaporates quickly. Benzene does occur naturally and is released from forest fires and volcanic eruptions, but most often benzene comes from man's activities. Our biggest exposure to benzene is in the workplace.

Exposure in the Workplace

Benzene is one of the 20 most widely used chemicals in the U.S. It is used primarily as a solvent and as a basic substance used in making other materials. The substance also occurs in gasoline, where it is an additive, crude oil and cigarette smoke.

People are exposed to benzene mainly through inhaling contaminated air. Exposure through the skin also is possible, but because it evaporates so quickly, the skin is a much less common route of exposure.

Workers in certain industries are exposed to high levels of benzene, including:

• Gasoline-related industries
• Oil refineries
• Shoe manufacturers
• Rubber industry
• Chemical plants
• Pesticide manufacturers
• Makers of certain drugs
• Certain lubricant makers
• Printing
• Laboratory work
• Detergent manufacturers
• Dye makers
• Steel industry
• Art suppliers
• Paint manufacturers

Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

It is known that benzene causes cancer. Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) can result from high exposure to benzene. Workers in certain industries such as chemical-making, shoemaking and oil refining are at the highest risk of developing acute myelogenous leukemia from exposure to high amounts of benzene.

It has been proven that benzene causes various kinds of tumors in laboratory mice and rats when these animals inhale or swallow it. Laboratory studies have shown that benzene causes chromosomal changes in bone marrow cells, which are the kinds of changes that occur in human leukemia cells.

AML begins in the bone marrow, a soft inner section of the bones where new blood cells are made. AML quickly moves into the blood.

Symptoms of AML

• Swollen gums
• Lack of hunger
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Pain in the bones and joints
• Weight loss
• Easy bruising and bleeding
• Paleness
• Petechiae (pin-head-sized reddened flat spot under the skin caused by bleeding)

Because the disease progresses rapidly it is important to begin treatment as soon as possible after diagnosis. AML can kill patients within weeks or months if it is not promptly treated.

Contact a Benzene Lawyer at Flood Law Group

If you or someone you love has been exposed to benzene and has been diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia, the attorneys at Flood Law Group may be able to help you. To schedule a free case review with an experienced benzene attorney, please contact us today.