Diseases Linked to Benzene Exposure

When a person is exposed to benzene, it is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and can damage stem cells which, in turn, can lead to the development of potentially fatal blood disorders.

Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) 

Today it is well known benzene exposure can cause AML. AML is a cancer in the white blood cells that battle infectious agents throughout the body. AML is not inherited or contagious. Therefore it is likely caused by environmental conditions.

Although AML can occur in people of any age, it is most common in older adults. Each year, more than 10,000 adults are diagnosed with AML in the United States. Symptoms of AML vary greatly, but may include: lack of energy, weight loss, the development of infections, prolonged or excessive bleeding, joint pain, and fever.

Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) 

MDS is a collection of disorders in which bone marrow – the body’s “blood builder” – does not produce enough blood cells. Although MDS is not itself considered a cancer, some forms of MDS can progress to AML. As a result, MDS is commonly referred to as pre-leukemia. Symptoms of MDS typically include weakness, fatigue, fever, and easy bruising.

Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma (NHL) 

Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphatic system - the body's blood-filtering tissues that help fight infection and disease.  Over the past 20 years, the number of NHL diagnoses have increased by more than 70%. NHL now represents 4% of all American cancers, and it is the fifth most common malignancy in the United States. Symptoms of NHL may include swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, loss of appetite, and fever.

Aplastic Anemia 

Aplstic anemia is not a single disease, but a group of closely related disorders that prevent bone marrow from producing all three types of blood cells:  red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. The loss of blood cells results in feelings of fatigue, loss of blood clotting ability and a higher susceptibility to infection. Symptoms of aplastic anemia may include fever, headaches, dizziness, nausea, lack of energy, bruising, and bleeding.

If you suffer from any of these diseases or think you have been exposed to benzene, please contact us.

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