Can Benzene Cause Cancer?

Yes.

Based on the evidence from studies conducted on both humans and lab animals, it has been concluded that exposure to benzene will cause cancer. The studies have also shown that the links between cancer and benzene have primarily focused on leukemia.

After analyzing the data from the study of benzene exposure in people, researchers were able to discover that the rates of leukemia, particularly acute myeloid leukemia (AML), were higher for those individuals who were exposed to high levels of benzene while working with chemicals, shoemaking materials, and or in oil refining industries. Other studies have suggested the links to childhood AML leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and other blood-related cancers, such as multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, are directly connected to benzene exposure.

Compared to the lab study on mice, benzene was found to cause different types of tumors if inhaled or swallowed. However, it is essential to note that while the study on mice did help support the findings behind the connection of leukemia in humans after exposure to benzene, most other studies on humans have not found an increased risk of cancers outside of leukemia among people with higher exposures.

Exposure to benzene can cause severe illnesses for individuals who breathe in, eat foods, drink beverages, or use products containing high levels of benzene. Below we have listed some of the most common symptoms that can develop anywhere from minutes to several hours after exposure:

• Headaches
• Drowsiness
• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Convulsions
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

For short-term exposure to high levels of benzene, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests getting as far away as possible from the source of benzene as well as removing any articles of clothing that may have benzene on them. The CDC also recommends that you wash any exposed areas with soap and water and seek out medical care as soon as possible. 

If you believe you may have been exposed to benzene over an extended period of time, immediately speak to a medical care provider. 

If you have been exposed to benzene, you may be at risk of developing a life-threatening illness. Don’t wait to contact a medical professional to receive treatment, then reach out to an attorney. At Morgan & Morgan, our attorneys understand how difficult it can be to navigate life after you’ve been diagnosed with cancer due to toxic exposure to benzene. For over 30 years, we have been helping victims like you get the justice they deserve, and we want to help you too. To learn more information on how one of our attorneys can help you, please complete our free, no-obligation case evaluation form today.