Grand Island Residents Voice Concern Over Benzene Exposure
According to recent reports, the residents of Grand Island in New York are growing increasingly concerned regarding a nearby plant they believe to be emitting benzene. Benzene is a known carcinogen that can cause serious health problems to those exposed to it overtime. It is used in the production of many chemicals, gasoline, and even soft drinks and can often victimize people through inhalation and ingestion.
One resident who knows all too much about the implications of benzene exposure is Lovisa Anderson. Anderson is currently battling cancer in her lymph nodes and is undergoing intense chemotherapy. Anderson was diagnosed last year and was unaware of what may have caused her sudden cancer diagnosis until she hears about a recent study conducted by the New York Department of Conservation.
Study Exposes Ugly Truth About Local Plant
The study discovered that there were high levels of benzene in the air surrounding the community of Grand Island. The toxic air was immediately linked to the nearby Tonawanda Coke plant.
Anderson then found out that she isn't the only local resident suffering from an illness due to benzene exposure. Soon after her diagnosis, her sister-in-law, who lives down the street, was also diagnosed with cancer.Later on in the year, five more neighbors died due to exposure or are now living with cancer.
"My residents are sick, they have been sick for 30 years," stated Erie County Legislator Michele Iannello (D) at a news conference Saturday afternoon at Beaver Island State Park.
Ianello, along with state Assemblyman Sam Hoyt, environmentalists and residents are currently gathered trying to pressure the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state officials to temporarily close the toxic plant until the benzene problem is under control.
