Does benzene cause cancer? Benzene is a gas released into the air from car exhaust pipes and industrial plant emissions. It has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia in children and other blood cancers. Benzene exposure can also increase the risk of developing some other forms of cancer, such as cervical and colon cancers. OSHA sets limits at a maximum concentration of 1 ppm. These limits are designed to protect people from a lifetime of exposure to benzene daily.
Most of the research studies on benzene have so far focused on leukemia. However, benzene exposure increases the risk of developing other types of cancer, such as cervical and colon cancers.
There are many products that we use every day that have benzene in them. Some of these products are:
According to the CDC, exposure to benzene at one ppm or higher can lead to adverse health effects. These are:
These effects usually occur at levels higher than those set by OSHA regulations.
Benzene has been shown to increase the risk of blood cancers by damaging the bone marrow, where new blood cells are made. So how does benzene cause cancer? By damaging the bone marrow, benzene reduces the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The immune system depends on these cells for protection from infection and disease. Hence, a reduction in the number of red and white blood cells makes people more vulnerable to conditions that can be severe or even fatal. How does benzene cause cancer? Exposure to benzene results in increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS can damage cells and lead to the types of blood cancers associated with benzene exposure.
The various cancers benzene can cause include:
Anyone exposed to toxic emissions with benzene or prolonged exposure to products with benzene is at risk. For example, if you have used certain sunscreens, you are at a greater risk of developing cancer. Additionally, specific trades experience prolonged exposure to benzene.
The EPA recommends that people living in areas with industrial emissions should avoid being near the source of emissions. If you have to go near a source of benzene, there are some precautions you can take. For example, you can use a mask and goggles when ventilating equipment. The EPA also recommends limiting your exposure to cigarette smoke and avoiding using products with benzene.
How does benzene cause cancer? Benzene is a cancer-causing agent linked to leukemia and other blood cancers like multiple myeloma. People exposed to it should be treated by an oncologist specializing in blood cancers, such as a hematologist or oncologist. The treatment for benzene exposure depends on the type of cancer it is causing. Drugs called benzene triazines are usually given to prolong the patient's lifespan. You may need intensive chemotherapy that lasts up to 3 months and includes daily infusions, intravenous chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, or radiation therapy.
If you think exposure to benzene caused your cancer or illness, you may be eligible for compensation. Compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. Contact us today to get started.
