Benzene exposure may be a problem for you if you have been around certain products or have been exposed to a job that uses these products. Benzene exposure may also be due to contaminated water or smoking cigarettes. The CDC states that approximately 250,000 children in the U.S. have blood lead levels that are higher than 10 micrograms per deciliter. When blood lead levels rise above this level, health action should be taken.
Benzene is a carcinogen
Benzene is a known carcinogen. Although many other chemicals are suspected of causing cancer, benzene is the only one to be designated a “known human carcinogen” by the Environmental Protection Agency. The International Agency for Cancer Research also recognizes benzene as a carcinogen in humans. Long-term exposure to benzene has been associated with acute myeloid leukemia in laboratory studies. The EPA says that benzene causes leukemia and other cancers.
Benzene is commonly found in our environment and is a component of gasoline, paints, inks, rubber, and even old spot removers. Exposure to benzene is a concern for those who work in the petroleum industry. Short-term exposure to high levels may cause dizziness, unconsciousness, and death. The United States government estimates that more than 238,000 people are exposed to benzene at work or through other sources.
It is found in many consumer products
Benzene is a naturally occurring component of gasoline, motor vehicle exhaust, and cigarette smoke. Benzene can be absorbed by breathing air containing the substance. It can also be absorbed through contact with gasoline, although this method is rarer than contacting liquid benzene. Researchers generally use two types of studies to evaluate the potential dangers of benzene to humans.
Benzene has been found in dozens of consumer products. It is commonly used as a propellant for petroleum-based thickeners called carbomers. Pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies generally don’t use benzene, but some personal care products may have substituted a less-pure industrial grade. This contamination has prompted many recalls. Fortunately, the contamination has been limited to relatively small amounts of products.
It is contaminated by cigarette smoking
There are several sources of benzene, including automobile exhaust, gasoline fumes, and wastewater from certain industries. Benzene is found naturally in the air and is relatively low in most areas, though exposure can be higher in enclosed spaces or areas with unventilated sources of pollution. In addition, benzene can have a particularly harmful effect on the reproductive system, causing women to have irregular menstrual cycles and ovaries to shrink. In addition to this, it may also negatively impact men’s fertility.
Benzene can get into the body through cigarette smoke, volcanic gas emissions, and forest fires. The EPA has set a limit of 5 parts per billion for benzene in drinking water, but states may set even stricter standards. Those who are exposed to benzene should wash contaminated clothing and skin as soon as possible. To prevent further exposure, it’s also important to wash contact lenses after benzene exposure.
It is contaminated by contaminated water
Every day, 2 million tons of sewage are dumped into our drinking water. More people die every year from contaminated water than from any other form of violence combined. This water is also contaminated with viruses, bacteria, and parasites called waterborne pathogens. These microbes can cause diseases and even reproductive issues. They are especially dangerous for those with weak immune systems or those who have no idea that they are contaminated.
Because many people drink the water from surface reservoirs, pathogens can be found in these bodies of water. Contaminated water is a serious health threat, especially in coastal areas. Many developed countries use water from surface reservoirs for drinking purposes, and these bodies of water are vulnerable to pathogen contamination. Water regulators have increasingly recognized the importance of protecting our drinking water from pathogen contamination. However, outbreaks of the water-borne disease continue to plague public water supplies.
It is based on negligence
Benzene exposure can lead to the development of certain types of cancer, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma and myelodysplastic syndrome. Because benzene affects the functions of the cells in the body, a wrongful death claim may be available. Other potential damages include medical bills paid before the victim died, funeral and burial costs, and loss of support and love.
The Locks Law Firm represents benzene exposure victims across the country, and he uses his legal expertise and skill to hold the negligent party responsible. He possesses both medical training and legal expertise and has years of experience representing clients. In a benzene exposure lawsuit, the client can seek financial compensation for past and future medical bills, lost wages, permanent impairment/disfigurement, and punitive damages.