Benzene is used in the manufacture of rubber, plastics, and synthetic fibers including nylon, lubricants, drugs, dyes, detergents, and pesticides. The chemical is also found in many fuels and solvents and is usually colorless and light yellow in appearance.
Despite being one of the most commonly used chemicals in the United States, benzene exposure has been linked to acute myeloid leukemia (AML)—a rapid-spreading cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
If you or someone you love developed acute myeloid leukemia, you may be entitled to compensation. Our benzene attorneys can investigate your case and work to determine if you were exposed to benzene and who may be responsible for your illness. Your time to file a claim is limited—call or contact our defective product lawyers now to help protect your rights.
Benzene Exposure Linked to Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
According to the American Cancer Society, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, has classified benzene as carcinogenic to humans based on evidence linking it to the development of AML. Studies have also shown that rates of AML are higher among workers regularly exposed to benzene than other parts of the population.
Several government agencies have acknowledged the health risks of Benzene. The chemical is recognized as a:
- Cancer-causing agent by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- Hazardous material by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
- Hazardous air pollutant by the U.S. Clean Air Act.
- Toxic pollutant under the U.S. Clean Water Act.
Workers At Risk of Benzene AML
Workers are exposed to benzene through inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, and skin and/or eye contact. Workers using solvents can absorb benzene through the skin (primarily the hands) by handling rags or splashing solvents on their skin or by breathing in vapors.
Workers at risk include:
- Chemical workers
- Firefighters
- Gasoline workers
- Lab technicians
- Newspaper press workers
- Painters
- Printers
- Refinery workers
- Shoe or leather workers
- Steel workers
Factory workers involved in manufacturing of benzene-derived products—such as clothing, plywood, compact discs, paints, packaging, and adhesives—may also face an increased risk of AML.
AML Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of adult AML include:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Petechaie (flat, pinpoint spots under the skin caused by bleeding)
- Weight loss
Doctors can perform blood and bone marrow tests that detect and diagnose AML, and treatment options may be available depending on prognosis.
Get Help with Your Benzene Leukemia Lawsuit
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with AML, contact us now. You don’t have to know when or how you were exposed to benzene to have potential rights to compensation. Our law firm has experience with benzene leukemia cases, and we’re here to investigate who may be responsible for your illness.
There are strict deadlines to file benzene lawsuits. Don’t wait. Call or contact our Birmingham personal injury lawyers for a free initial consultation today. We’re here to help.
This law firm is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or associated with the American Cancer Society; Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; the Occupational Health and Safety Administration; the U.S. Department of Transportation; or the World Health Organization.
Cases may be referred to another attorney or law firm.
