Benzene Exposure
The Dangers of Benzene
Victims of benzene exposure turn to us with confidence. Simon Passanante can provide you the professional legal help and expertise you need if you have been harmed by your exposure to Benzene. We handle Benzene cases in numerous jurisdictions throughout the United States.
Benzene is a carcinogen. Exposure to Benzene can cause acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), as well as other forms of leukemia and cancer. Benzene has been widely used for many years and millions of workers are still exposed to it every year. Benzene is used as a constituent in motor fuels; as a solvent for fats, waxes, resins, oils, inks, paints, plastics, glues, detergents and printing supplies. Benzene is also used to manufacture detergents, explosives, pharmaceuticals and dyes.
It is common for Benzene-related diseases and illnesses to develop slowly. This means that people live with serious Benzene effects for years without receiving treatment.
Diseases Caused by Exposure to Benzene
Benzene causes cancer and central nervous system toxicity. The EPA has classified Benzene as a “Category A” human carcinogen. Studies have linked Benzene exposure to certain forms of leukemia, a disease that affects the blood and bone marrow. High levels of exposure to Benzene can be fatal. Those who have worked with Benzene over a long period of time are especially at risk. Long-term Benzene exposure is associated with the following diseases and conditions:
Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)
Acute Lymphatic Leukemia (ALL)
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)
Chronic Lymphatic Leukemia (CLL)
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Aplastic Anemia
Blood disorders
Multiple Myeloma
Our attorneys have the experience and the knowledge to successfully handle your claim. We will ensure that you and your family are compensated for injuries and pain associated with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and other Benzene related diseases. Although no amount of money can truly compensate you, we will work to make sure you have the money to meet the financial burdens that accompany serious illness.
If you or a loved one is in need of legal assistance concerning Benzene, you should get a lawyer on your side to learn more about your options. You may qualify for damages or remedies offered by the court system. The law limits the amount of time after a patient incurs an injury to file suit, and the amount of time varies from state to state. Contact us today to make sure you protect your rights.
Who is at Risk?
Benzene is easily absorbed into the bloodstream when its vapors are inhaled. It can also be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream.
Benzene is a petroleum-based flammable liquid hydrocarbon. It is used in the manufacture of rubber, plastics, resins, plastics, paints, rubber, resins, detergents, lubricants, drugs and synthetic fibers. Benzene can also be present in organic solvents, gasoline, and tobacco smoke. One can be exposed to Benzene by breathing its toxic vapors in the air or having skin contact with solvents or other materials containing Benzene.
Those particularly at risk for exposure to Benzene include the following:
Painters
Foundry Workers
Those exposed to emissions from burning coal and oil, motor vehicle exhaust, and Evaporation from gasoline service stations
Those exposed to industrial solvents
Industrial Plant Workers
People who work with chemical products, detergents
Boilermakers
Shoe/leather workers refinery workers
Plumbers, carpenters, laborers, pipe fitters, pesticide workers, printers and pulp workers
Pipe Fitters
Pharmaceutical Plant Workers
Industrial Painters.
Chemical laboratory workers
Those who work with Pesticides
Printers
Those who work with adhesives, caulks and construction materials
A Note on Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Various researchers, including those at the University of North Carolina School of Public Health, have concluded that exposure to Benzene is linked to many forms of leukemia including acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). See Savitz, D., and Andrews, K.,“Review of Epidemiologic Evidence on Benzene and Lymphatic and Hematopoietic Cancers,” Amer. J. Industrial Health 31:287-295 (1997).
Benzene has been linked as a cause of AML, which develops when there is a defect in the immature cells of bone marrow. A person with AML does not produce enough healthy blood cells. This results in anemia, a suppressed immune system and many other serious health problems.
