Benzene Related Leukemia

Benzene leukemia has been associated with long-term exposure to the hazardous chemical benzene. Benzene, a carcinogen, is found in rubbers, plastics, synthetic fabrics, and resins. It is a clear, colorless and flammable liquid. This dangerous chemical has been strictly regulated by the federal government’s Environmental Protection Agency, but it is still a risk for many people in industrial professions.

Benzene Exposure in the Work Place

With exposures from less than 5 years to more than 30 years, individuals have developed, and died from, leukemia. Long-term benzene exposure can affect bone marrow and blood production. Short-term exposure to high levels of benzene can cause drowsiness, dizziness, unconsciousness, and death.

Individuals employed in industries that make or use benzene may be exposed to the highest levels of benzene. These industries include benzene production (petrochemicals, petroleum refining and coke and coal chemical manufacturing), rubber tire manufacturing and storage or transport of benzene and petroleum products containing benzene. Other workers who may be exposed to benzene because of their occupations include: laboratory technicians, mechanics, chemical plant workers, steel workers, paper and wood pulp workers, printers, rubber workers, shoe makers, firefighters, gasoline truck drivers, pipe fitters, refinery workers, maritime workers and gas station employees.

Benzene exposure has been associated particularly with myelogenous leukemia. Myelogenous leukemia is a cancer that forms within the body’s white blood cells. White blood cells destroy foreign bacteria and cells in the body that could cause infection or illness. Myelogenous leukemia causes the body’s production of white and red blood cells to be disturbed, substantially weakening the body’s immune system and causing anemia in many cases. Patients suffering from myelogenous benzene leukemia have impaired strength and are much more susceptible to infection.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), please call Claudine Q. Homolash for a free confidential benzene lawsuit evaluation.