Benzene Leukemia Law Blog : Benzene and Leukemia Lawyer & Attorney : Burke & Eisner Law Firm : Benzene Exposure, Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma

A few weeks back I posted about an L.A. County housing tract in Carson Ca. found to be heavily contaminated with underground benzene and methane. The pollution came from defunct underground tanks operated by Shell Oil Co. on the site for forty years ending in 1960.

When I last posted about this, the nightmare was just beginning for those living in the 275 home Carousel neighborhood. Barbara Post, president of the Carousel Homeowners' Association had said:

"Chemicals are a serious matter, we have to trust that Shell is going to take care of it for us."

Trusting Shell is not a good plan, fortunately Barbara Post is starting to see more clearly:

"I've been worried about this, but I'm scared to death now, Shell can't replace my house, and they can't replace that neighborhood."

Weeks ago Shell had only drilled samples from the public roads and had just begun asking home owners for permission to test private properties. Shell, of course, was optimistic:

 "We don't believe that there is reason to be concerned from a safety perspective, but we felt like it was the right thing to do to make sure there were not the same levels detected on residential properties."-Shell spokeswoman Alison Chassen

Would Chassen be concerned if it were her neighborhood? Definitely. It is well known that subterranean benzene has a nasty habit of seeping into structures built above it, and contaminating ground water.

Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon and known human carcinogen. It interferes with the body's ability to produce new blood cells, a crucial part of the human immune system. Benzene exposure has been linked to debilitating and potentially fatal blood diseases like acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The possibility of people contracting these disorders should be of concern from any reasonable "safety perspective."

Recently, 300 residents met with lawyers to discuss a lawsuit against Shell. According to the lawyers, at some sites, benzene levels are 100,000 times accepted state standards. Robert Bowcock, an environmental consultant hired by the law firm told residents:

 "You've been exposed to a very high level, I'm incensed and angry that Shell let this happen. Shell is not interested in being your friend. They will do absolutely the minimum they are required to do. We know the games they can play and we're going to hold their feet to the fire."

Precedent indicates that Bowcock is correct. A benzene lawsuit is the only way to force Shell to properly compensate residents for damage to their properties, and their health.



 

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Parish chemical Co. in Vineyard Utah faces a lawsuit filed late last week by the EPA. The suit stems from a 2008 inspection during which federal investigators discovered a staggering collection of toxic waste sitting “unsecured” in hundreds of open vats and containers.

According to the suit, the containers were “failing” and “improperly managed.” In order to “reduce the potential of fire and/or explosion,” EPA workers removed hundreds of the containers from the site.

Appallingly, many of the containers were not labeled as hazardous or had no label, others sported question marks, or labels reading “unknown.”

The lack of care clearly displayed by the company was not because the chemicals were considered benign, the substances discovered at Parish are some of the most flammable, volatile, and health hazardous chemicals currently in use. The list includes methylene chloride, acetone, petroleum ether, benzene, toluene, and perchloric acid.

The following list of additional allegations appeared in yesterday’s Salt Lake Tribune:

•  Records for wastes shipped off-site were incomplete.
•  Drums had collapsed or were in poor condition.
•  Hazardous wastes were stored for years beyond a 90-day limit.
•  There was no record of tank inspections or air emissions tests.
•  The company did not have liability coverage for accidents.

According to the lawsuit, the cost of the federal response was $640,000. The suit seeks penalties of $32,500 to $37,500 per violation.

This type of reckless behavior puts workers at risk of unnecessary chemical exposure. Obviously Parish Chemical Co. has a very lax attitude about storing dangerous waste which directly indicates a lax attitude towards worker health and longevity.

All of the above listed chemicals are hazardous to human health, especially benzene. Long term exposure to the chemical severely impairs the immune system by disrupting the body's ability to produce blood cells, this can result in a number of potentially fatal hematological disorders like, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphocytic leukemia.

Parish will lose this case and pay a relatively small fine, but in situations like this it's the workers that really lose. At place like Parish an employee who regularly clocks in to do his or her job could be rewarded with a debilitating and potentially fatal illness. Sadly this is not uncommon, even with today's laws and safeguards workers are often sickened due to the actions of their employers.

If you or a loved one have been wrongfully harmed by benzene at work, it is important to speak with a benzene lawyer without delay. Some states have statues of limitations (time limits) that could block you from compensation. Reputable benzene lawyers charge nothing to discuss your case, and only receive payment if your case is successful.

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Dailybreeze.com reports that Shell Oil Co. has found the ground beneath the Carousel housing tract in Carson Ca., to be extensively contaminated with benzene and methane. 

The contamination is thought to stem from shell owned oil reserves operated on the land from the 1920's to 1960's. In those days, oil was stored in subterranean concrete lined tanks which are now illegal due to problems with leakage. Today oil is stored in above ground tanks.

Barbara Post, president of the Carousel Homeowners' Association said:

"Chemicals are a serious matter, we have to trust that Shell is going to take care of it for us."

So far, Shell seems to be reacting to the situation responsibly, but that attitude seems a bit naive. If one must trust Shell to take care of something like this, I would recommend also taking all possible measures toward forcing them to do the right thing.

Oil companies can be counted on to downplay any contamination related issue, here's a text book quote from shell spokeswoman Alison Chassen:

"We don't believe that there is reason to be concerned from a safety perspective, but we felt like it was the right thing to do to make sure there were not the same levels detected on residential properties."

No reason for concern? Very comforting I'm sure to for the 275 home owners on the Carousel tract.

Chassen is full of it. There is at the very least, some reason for concern in the area of safety when your neighborhood is found to be sitting on a toxic chemical plume. One such reason is that extensive subterranean benzene contamination has been known release fumes that seep into the structures located over the plume, potentially exposing residents to one of the most carcinogenic substances known to humans. 

Benzene exposure has been linked to debilitating and potentially fatal blood diseases like acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The possibility of people contracting these disorders should be of concern from any reasonable "safety perspective."

So far the testing has been done only on public rights of way, Shell is now seeking home owner's permission to test their yards.

The Regional Water Quality Control Board is overseeing the testing.

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The Texas legal journal Southeast Texas Record reports that "a man who claims he was exposed to benzene and other carcinogens throughout his career with the Kansas City Southern Railway Co. has filed suit against his former employer."

Richard Czuprynski says that during his employment with KCS, he was exposed to benzene, xylene, toluene, mixed solvents and diesel exhaust (which also contains benzene and other chemicals).

Czuprynski worked for the railway as a conductor, brakeman and engineer, from 1976 through march of this year.

The suit lists a number of "negligent acts" on the part of the KCS:

• failure to provide a safe place to work
• failure to limit hazardous substance exposure
• failure to warn of dangers of hazardous substances
• failure to provide adequate protective equipment

Czuprynski alleges that he developed the blood disease non-Hodgkin's lymphoma as a result of his exposure to benzene. According to the suit he seeks compensation for his mental anguish, physical pain and suffering, lost earnings and benefits, and the related medical costs.

Czuprynski has a solid case here, he was clearly exposed to benzene on the job for years, and has a blood disorder that is clearly linked to benzene. The odds of a favorable outcome lie with Czuprynski.

Many Americans have been needlessly and carelessly exposed to benzene over the course of their careers leaving many who were simply doing their jobs sick and unable to work.

The fact is that industry has been aware of the dangers of benzene and of evidence that it causes cancer for over a hundred years. Today science continues to link specific blood disorders and leukemias with benzene exposure. The growing list includes non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia.

If you or a loved one have worked in an industrial setting for any extended period and have been diagnosed with any of the above conditions, contact a benzene lawyer immediately. In some states statutes of limitations (time limits) exist that could prevent you from successfully obtaining compensation, even though your case may be cut and dry.  

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Old underground gas storage tanks put people at risk of exposure to benzene and other carcinogens. As these tanks deteriorate, they release their content into the ground, threatening to poison ground water, and drinking water wells.

According to a 2005 Sierra Club report, in 2005 the U.S. had 680,000 leaking underground storage tanks, with about 9,000 new leaks discovered annually. 

Fortunately the recent economic stimulus package includes $197,000 for storage tank cleanup. The funds are to be used for sites of unknown ownership, or where property owners are unwilling or unable to pay for the cleanup.

Margret Levin of the Sierra Club said:

"The longer that leaking tanks remain buried and aren’t cleaned up, the greater the chance of ground water contamination. The gasoline and oil from the tanks contain toxic substances such as benzene, toluene and heavy metals that can cause cancer and other health problems."

“The money that we’re getting won’t completely solve the problem, but it will help,” 

Long term exposure to even small amounts of benzene has been shown to reduce white blood cell counts, and has been linked to life threatening blood diseases and leukemias like, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

People living near old or even newer gas stations, or any buried gas or oil tanks, face possible water table or well contamination and should consider having their water tested for petrochemicals.

If you or a loved one have been wrongfully exposed to benzene, your best ally is a qualified benzene lawyer. Benzene lawyers are familiar with all the issues surrounding wrongful benzene exposure, and are equipped to go up against even the most powerful corporations in order to obtain compensation for victims. A reputable benzene lawyer will ask for no money unless they win your case. If there is any chance you've been exposed, you owe it to yourself to contact a benzene lawyer today.

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Two years ago, a massive plume of toxic chemicals was discovered beneath the site of a Sydney waterfront development. Now Australia's tax payers face footing the $98m clean-up bill.

Australia's Environment Protection Authority just declared that chemical leaching of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzene and cyanide at the site poses "a significant risk of harm to human health and the environment" also pointing out the the chemicals are at "concentrations significantly exceeding trigger values for the protection of human health". 

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, it has also recently come to light that, "the contaminated groundwater is making its way into Darling Harbor, potentially killing marine life at the tourist hot spot."

The Herald also pointed out that:

There is a distinct possibility the site's polluter, Alinta, may escape the cost of the clean-up because a higher threshold of remediation is required to allow residential towers on the site.  

This would be normal as well engineered loopholes often allow polluting corporations to escape cleaning up the toxic messes they create worldwide.

Chief executive of the Barangaroo Development Authority, John Tabart, says the site is safe because "contaminated ground water is away from the public." he continued:

"It is controlled... and removed from that area, [but] this can't continue on and that is why there is now a remediation order."

Folks like Mr. Talbert are often overly optimistic about remediation and the safety of highly toxic sites. It would be nice if contaminated ground water didn't pose a threat to the public due to it's being underground, that would seem logical to those unfamiliar with benzene plumes. At best Mr. Talbert is unaware that in areas heavily contaminated with aromatic hydrocarbons, vapors have been known to rise to the surface sometimes seeping into homes. Also, underground chemical plumes are notoriously difficult to completely remediate, meaning there will likely be some amount of benzene present under the site for a very long time.

Recently a government gazette said this about the contaminated groundwater at the site:

"[The contaminated groundwater] is impacting the surrounding areas, including the basement of a residential building adjacent to the site, potentially exposing humans in that building to harmful vapors; however, it is currently being effectively controlled."

Prolonged exposure to benzene has been linked to severe and potentially fatal blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and others. According to the World Health Organization, humans should take all possible measures to avoid benzene whenever possible.  

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In the United States our way of life is made possible by petroleum products such as gasoline and oil. Indeed we would not be where we are today without oil, but what is the cost to the health of our nation? Considering that most of us are regularly exposed to gasoline vapors, should we accept the addition of benzene, a class A known human carcinogen, to our gasoline?

Gasoline and oil products and the industries that surround them pose a significant threat to the health of consumers, workers, and communities:

• The international center for technology assessment estimates that medical costs associated with gasoline and diesel related cancers, birth defects, respiratory illnesses are well above $500 billion a year.
• An Denver USA study shows that children living near heavy traffic and/or gas stations are six times more likely to have cancer, and eight times more likely to have leukemia. (Benzene is unquestionably linked to several leukemias like acute myeloid leukemia, and acute lymphocytic leukemia.)
• Britain's Birmingham University calls gasoline and vehicle emissions "the primary culprits" directly responsible for their conclusion that UK children living near major traffic hubs face 12 times more risk of cancer related death.
• German scientists found that blood benzene concentrations in children living near heavy traffic or filling stations are 70% higher than in other children.

The above facts are indeed disturbing and perhaps a slap in the face to anyone who hasn't yet noticed that human health is often unable to trump profit in the current economy.

Take for example the tobacco industry, makers of the only product that, when used as directed, causes death. Like the petrochemical industry they too are allowed to add benzene, and whatever other chemicals they want, to their products without any regulation.

But why must we be poisoned on a regular basis? Why don't we just take the known carcinogens out of the gas and call it good? 

Let's face it, it's no coincidence that of the seven EPA designated class A known human carcinogens, benzene and 1,3 butadiene (the ones in gas and cigarettes), are by far the least restricted. Restricting these commodity chemicals, or replacing them with alternatives (yes they exist) would cut deeply into the profits of some of the most economically powerful groups in the world.

It is true that blending ethanol with gasoline can result in a significantly less toxic fuel, in some parts of the U.S. these fuels are already available, but many doubt that ethanol blended fuels will ever sweep the globe because ethanol production is agriculture based and thus elaborate and costly.

While it is currently impossible to completely eliminate petrochemical exposure in our population, we must hold oil companies accountable for their actions and insure that the fuels that humans regularly handle are as free of carcinogens as possible. The facts above show that the current situation is completely unacceptable.

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U.S. Steel has just released the details of their plans to clean up an underground benzene plume that has been seeping into Lake Michigan from the company's Gary Steel Works. Benzene levels in the groundwater were up to 600 times the federal drinking water limit.

Though the exact source and of the benzene is difficult to pinpoint, many speculate that it came from an abandoned "tank farm" at a demolished coke plant formerly located on the seven mile long property.

U.S. Steel says it is already installing 11 specially designed 65 foot deep wells that will pump groundwater to the surface where a vacuum and catalytic oxidizer will allegedly burn 99 percent of the pollutant.

Benzene is a virulently cancerous organic compound. Industry's wide use of benzene, from the undustrial revolution to present day, has left a legacy of pollution, suffering, and death that has affected the lives of countless innocent bystanders. Benzene is associated with debilitating blood disorders like aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myeloid leukemia, and non-Hogkin's lymphoma, among others.

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On Tuesday Stephen Colbert, the Comedy Central "news commentator" railed against a lake city man who filed a lawsuit saying that the city of Seattle must conduct an environmental review prior to it's Fourth of July fire works show at the city's Gas Works Park.

Gas Works...ummm... Park? The area is a partially remediated toxic waste site.

At the Heart of the lawsuit are concerns that the thousands of people present at the show could kick loose or otherwise compromise the protective layer of clean soil capping the heavily benzene laden soil below, exposing the public to the the known carcinogen.

A lawsuit attempting to prohibit fire works on the Fourth of July is of course fair game for Colbert's writers, but the lawsuit guy has a point, even if he is a party pooper. Benzene exposure can lead to a number of blood disorders like aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, as well as several types of leukemia including acute myeloid leukemia, and acute lymphocytic leukemia.

While the lawsuit may be great fodder for the late night TV crowd, it has some valid points. Soil and groundwater that are heavily contaminated with benzene tend to release fumes above ground into the air. Abandoned gas plants tend to be some of the most benzene contaminated sites on earth, and should be avoided.  

Colbert, of course, tends to disagree:

"I say an abandoned gas plant is the perfect place to shoot off fireworks. The pyrotechnics could last for weeks. Plus, thanks to the underground plumes of carcinogenic benzene, you don't have to bring pot."

Benzene Leukemia Law Blog wishes you a happy Fourth of July!

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New York Senator Charles E. Schumer has written a letter to the owner of the Tonawana Coke Corperation strongly urging the company to take swift action to reduce harmful benzene emissions. 

Schumer noted that the plant had reduced emissions of certain toxins, but said that "much more needs to be done to reduce the amount of benzene released into the air."

An EPA and DEC funded study found last year that airborne benzene levels in and around the town of Tonawanda are up to 75 times higher than New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recommended guidelines.

Schumer:

“Studies have proven that exposure to these sky-high benzene levels are harmful and that the emissions from this plant are simply too high. A more concerted effort must be made to prevent these toxic chemicals from making their way into our air. I urge the Tonawanda Coke Corporation to map out a plan to reduce these harmful emmissions and present it to the public -- to ensure the health and safety of residents and workers.”

Schumer went on to underline the urgency of the threat that benzene emissions pose to the health of the people of Tonawanda...

"Due to the fact that benzene is a known carcinogen, every effort must be made to greatly reduce the amount that is being released by Tonawanda Coke. Residents of the Town of Tonawanda and the surrounding area are experiencing numerous health problems resulting from these toxic emissions. Serious diseases such as fibromyalgia and many types of cancer are occurring at irregularly high rates among Tonawanda residents. This in addition to less serious ailments such as constant headaches, and increased asthma and allergy rates, are proof enough that something is happening to the town’s residents. It is no coincidence that those suffering from serious health problems live in close proximity to the Tonawanda Coke plant.

Indeed exposure to benzene causes cancer and bone marrow failure (BMF) diseases like aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia and others.

The Tone of Schumer's letter was grave but respectful of Tonawanda Coke's contributions the economy of Tonawanda and New York State. Tonawanda Coke Corporation, great company if you can see past them breaking environmental laws and poisoning innocent people with massive amounts of airborne benzene.

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This article discusses recent studies on the success of azacitidine (Vidaza®) treatment in reducing transfusion dependency, and increasing overall survival in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients.

Data presented at the 14th Congress of the European Society of Hematology demonstrate that treatment with azacitidine (Vidaza®) significantly extends overall survival and helps patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) become or remain red blood cell transfusion independent. Patients who benefited included those with higher-risk MDS or acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) with 20-30% blasts, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO).
“The presentations at EHA this year continue to support the clinical benefit associated with Vidaza in MDS, including significantly extended overall survival...

Read the full article at ecancermedicalscience.com.

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Tseng I-Ching, a 16-year-old high school student from Taiwan, has just taken top honors at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) for her discovery of a bacterium that decomposes polystyrene or Styrofoam.

Though Styrofoam no longer contains the ozone destroying CFC's we used to hear about, it is still a threat to humans and the environment because it virtually never breaks down, and requires dangerous chemicals for it's manufacture. It does deteriorate into small granules, but those float on air and water and tamper with the food chain.

The production of polystyrene requires benzene, a known carcinogen that causes bone marrow failure diseases such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myeloid leukemia. 

While biodegradable alternatives to classic polystyrene are becoming more available, the U.S. tosses out some 25 billion non-biodegradable Styrofoam cups annually.

If we must use carcinogenic chemicals in the production of eating and drinking containers, (which for the record seems like a bad idea to me), it would be nice if that toxic material could break down instead of building up for future generations to deal with. Hopefully Tseng I-Ching's discovery can help us facilitate this.

Benzene is a highly useful chemical that industry has depended on throughout the industrial revolution. Indeed it seemed pretty cool at first, but now significant evidence suggests that there is no safe exposure level for this carcinogenic aromatic hydrocarbon. The frequent use of benzene in industrial applications is sickening people world wide. Many of those sickened are innocent bystanders who live in proximity to industrial areas. Industrial workers also face the threat of benzene related disease.

Many people who have been wrongfully exposed to benzene have been able to receive monetary compensation for their illness through working with a reputable benzene lawyer. Benzene lawyers specialize in going up against even the most powerful corporations, and holding them accountable for their actions.

If you or a loved one have been sickened by benzene, discuss your situation benzene lawyer, they don't get paid unless your case is successful.

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If you have kids or grand kids you've probably noticed the springy recycled tire rubber surfaces found under many newer playgrounds. The material is also used on sports fields in modern artificial turf. The popular surfaces, made from shredded tires, reduce injury, require little maintenance, and are weatherproof.  So what's the problem? Tires contain known carcinogenic aromatic hydrocarbons like benzene, as well as lead, and other heavy metals..



The EPA is conducting air and surface samples at  four fields and playgrounds that feature recycled tires. According to AP the study was implemented in light of other EPA research suggesting health risks from exposure to the tire particles.

"From everything I've been able to see, I'm not sure there's an imminent hazard, but it's something we're investigating, it's critical to take a look at all the data together."

- Michael Firestone, EPA's head of children's health protection. 

Much of the concern is due to tiny particles of "turf dust" that could be kicked up and inhaled during play.

Dr. Philip Landrigan, professor and chairman of community and preventive medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York is calling for a moratorium on the surface until more studies are done.

 "All those toxins are very available to kids, if kids are playing and running, all this chemical soup is going to get on their skins and their fingers."- Dr. Landrigan

This issue is a perfect example of the classic disconnect regarding dangerous toxins in our society. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 25% of illness worldwide is due to human exposure to toxins. With that in mind it seems ridiculous that we would purposefully place large quantities of a material made from known carcinogens on our children's playgrounds and athletic fields.

Of particular concern to parents should be the lead and benzene present in "crumb rubber." Lead is well known to cause neurological damage in children, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advocates eliminating all non-essential uses of lead.

Benzene is linked with bone marrow failure diseases like aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myeloid leukemia.

The EPA points out that chemicals in recycled tires vary by location and manufacturer.

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The Aplastic Anemia and Myelodysplastic syndromes International Foundation Inc. (AA&MDSIF) describes itself as "dedicated to fighting bone marrow failure diseases through patient support and research."

The organization will hold a it's AA&MDSIF Patient and family Conference in Indianapolis this year from Friday July 10, to Sunday July 12. 

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with a bone marrow failure disease such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, or acute myeloid leukemia, AA&MDSIF supplied these excellent reasons why you should attend this event.

• Hear from leading experts. Learn more about your disease, current treatments and emerging therapies.
  
• Talk with fellow patients and their family members about practical matters and their personal experiences.
  
• Explore a variety of topics on living well and improving your quality of life.
  
• Join our Support Workshops, which are always a favorite, and connect and share with others who are coping with these rare diseases.
  
• Understand how AA&MDSIF can help you through this life-changing experience.
  
• Participate in our Survivors Celebration and leave with a sense of hope and a positive outlook for the future.

To register for this event click here.

Benzene Leukemia Law Blog recommends bookmarking AA&MDSIF's home page. www.aamds.org/aplastic/  

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While a link between bone marrow failure diseases and benzene exposure has been well established, there is a great need for more research into causes and treatments for these potentially fatal disorders. 

Bone marrow failure diseases, like aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), sicken between 20,000 and 30,000 Americans each year.

On February 26, 2009 Representative Dorris O Matusi (D-CA) introduced the Bone Marrow Failure Disease Research and Treatment Act of 2009. The legislation would pool the resources of several federal agencies in order to increase understanding and treatments for the disorders.

The following summary of the bill is courtesy of the Aplastic Anemia & MDS (myelodysplastic syndromes) International Foundation, Inc. (AA&MDSIF).

The legislation directs the Health and Human Services Department to develop a comprehensive 
strategy to combat these diseases, which include: 

• A national bone marrow failure disease registry so that researchers can combine their 
data in one place, yielding more effective research designs and better results; 

• Pilot studies through the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry to 
determine which environmental factors cause people to acquire bone marrow failure 
diseases; 

• Minority-focused programs to make information on treatment options and clinical trials 
available to minority communities, particularly Hispanic and Asian American 
communities; 

• Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality grants to help improve diagnostic 
practices and quality of care for patients with bone marrow failure diseases. 

In total, the legislation authorizes $8 million annually for fiscal years 2010 through 2014. 

For more details on the bill click here.

For information on how you can take action to help pass this legislation, check out AA&MDSIF's Grass Roots Action page by clicking here.

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Benzene exposure may cause acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), both of which are rare cancers of the blood. For those who have a history of occupational benzene exposure or who live in industrial areas where exposure is a risk, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of these two cancers.

Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

Signs and symptoms of AML resemble those of other more common illnesses, so it’s best to seek medical attention if any of the following occur after acute or prolonged exposure to benzene:

• Tiredness
• Lack of energy
• Random bruising
• Bone or joint aches
• Mild fever
• Pale skin
• Cuts that bleed excessively or heal slowly
• Swollen gums

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Signs and symptoms of NHL include:

• Enlarged lymph nodes, particularly in the armpit, neck or groin
• Tiredness
• Fever
• Rash
• Loss of appetite or weight loss
• Night sweats

If you have questions about any signs and symptoms of benzene cancer, you should discuss your circumstances with a doctor, who can refer you to a specialist if necessary.


 

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The Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed setting emissions limits on benzene and other toxins released from gas-fired and diesel stationary engines. These engines are used to generate electricity and power industrial equipment, and over 1 million of them operated in the U.S. last year.

Emissions from diesel and gas-fired stationary engines are significant and limiting the emissions could reduce toxic air pollutants by 13,000 tons per year, according to EPA estimates.

There is a serious health risk to those working or living in areas where toxic emissions are released. For instance, exposure to benzene is linked to several rare blood disorders including acute myelogenous leukemia. To weigh in on the EPA proposal, visit the agency’s website where you can submit comments for a limited period of time.

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The Marcellus Shale formation in Pennsylvania is one of America’s greatest natural gas resources. As one company scrambles to exploit this resource in Mount Pleasant Township, some residents are growing concerned about the potential for adverse health effects.

Range Resources Corp has drilled dozens of wells in the township to access water for a process known as “hydrofracking.” The process forces a chemical solution that includes benzene, methanol and over 200 others deep into the shale, and this facilitates the release of natural gas.

One research organization tested 54 chemicals in the fluid and found that:

• Nearly one-third are carcinogenic (that is, they are known to cause cancer)
• Nearly three-quarters cause respiratory problems
• Over half pose a risk to the blood and circulatory system

Indeed, benzene is known to cause a number of rare blood disorders and cancer, including aplastic anemia and acute myelogenous leukemia. And although a spokesman for Range Resources said the chemical solution is diluted and used at levels too deep for human exposure, citizens are still rightfully concerned.

The municipal supervisor for the township said he fears that the fluid will escape either above or below ground, and possibly contaminate groundwater. Another resident said she has stopped drinking from her wells and is having it tested because she’s concerned about its safety.

“I do feel the compulsion to make sure this [drilling] does not do horrible things to us,” she said.

Residents in this or other area of Pennsylvania where drilling is being undertaken may want to talk to their local representatives to learn more about measures being taken to prevent toxic contamination.


 
 
 

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Benzene has been found in water wells and soil at the site of an old gas plant in Champaign, Illinois – in some instances, the levels of benzene have been as high as 200 times the amount accepted by health officials as safe.

Energy company, Ameren, now owns the toxic site and residents are asking the company to investigate the problem. The company has outlined its plans to clean up some of the contamination, but generally the plan is to clean the top 10 feet of soil.

Many of the contaminated wells, according to Ameren, are deeper than 40 feet. The company said groundwater at this level will not have an impact on the local residents. However, the head of the Champaign County Health Consumers has called for the company to learn more about the risk to those in the area.

Benzene is a carcinogen that has been linked to rare cancers such as acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Concerned residents are welcome to attend an open house being held by the company on March 11th.





 

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In a settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency, BP Products North America has agreed to implement measures that will reduce benzene emissions at its Texas City refinery. The settlement will benefit those living in and around the area, who have suffered potentially harmful benzene exposure.

Exposure to benzene causes a variety of health problems including cancer (acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in particular), immune system suppression, and reproductive damage, among other things.

According to a press release by the EPA, BP will spend more than $161 million to control pollution generated during its petroleum refining processes. The money will go toward equipment upgrades, as well as improved monitoring and maintenance.

The EPA estimates that these actions will reduce emissions of benzene and other toxic chemicals by as much as 6,000 pounds a year.

 

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Under a settlement agreement with the U.S. Justice Department, two oil companies have agreed to cut benzene emissions. Benzene has been identified as a cancer-causing agent and is linked in particular to two rare cancers: acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

One of the companies, Wyoming Refining Co., agreed to spend $14 million to upgrade pollution controls at its refinery in Newcastle. This includes installing equipment to remove pollutants such as nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide.

The other company, Frontier Refining, which operates refineries in El Dorado, Kansas, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, will spend $127 million upgrading its refineries to bring them into compliance with the Clean Air Act.

Both companies must also pay civil penalties, which together will total close to $1.5 million.


 

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Gude Landfill in Montgomery County, Maryland, is seeping – and has been seeping for years – hazardous chemicals such as benzene, mercury and lead into area groundwater. In some cases, the contaminant levels are as much as ten times higher than what the Environmental Protection Agency allows.

Now, state environmental officials and a group of concerned citizens are seeking data from the county regarding the toxic contamination. The county has kept records on the contamination since shortly after the landfill stopped operating in 1982, but has failed to report the results to the Maryland Department of the Environment.

Residents at Risk?

A representative from the county’s Department of Environmental Protection said there is no evidence linking the pollution to health effects in the community, though some residents have suffered years of toxic exposure.

Benzene is a known cancer-causing chemical and has been linked to rare cancers such as acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The spokesperson for the local DEP said the residents’ drinking water has not been contaminated, but added that kids and pets should not play in nearby Rock Creek.


 

 

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Benzene exposure can cause a number of serious health problems, and people may be exposed to the toxic chemical through various sources. We have seen many different types of cases involving benzene exposure and think it’s important that individuals understand how it occurs, its effects and other benzene facts.

How It Occurs
Benzene is a widely used chemical in industrial processes in the United States – Individuals who live or work in industrial areas may face a greater risk of benzene exposure than others.
Benzene is also found in hazardous waste sites and underground storage tanks near gas stations. Leaks can contaminate groundwater and cause exposure.  
Low levels of benzene exposure may occur in the outdoor air as a result of tobacco smoke and vehicle exhaust.

Health Effects
Exposure to benzene can impair red blood cell production and cause anemia.
It can damage the immune system and cause the loss of white blood cells.
The Department of Health and Human Services has identified benzene exposure as a cause of cancer, particularly acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Exposure may affect fertility in women.

The health effects a person experiences depends on the amount and duration of benzene exposure, and also whether exposure occurred through direct contact with the skin, ingestion or inhalation. Medical advice should be sought any time benzene exposure is suspected.

Individual Rights
Irresponsible corporate and industrial practices that result in benzene exposure may form the basis of legal actions, and individuals who have developed illnesses like cancer may be able to file or join a lawsuit to seek damages.





 

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A study published in the May issue of the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management  indicates that a walking exercise program can  reduce fatigue levels in those AML( acute myelogenous leukemia) patients  who are being treated with chemotherapy.

Dr. Yeur-Hur Lai of National Taiwan University in Taipei and colleagues randomly assigned 22 hospitalized AML patients  to either a walking group or a control group receiving standard ward care.  The walking group walked 12 minutes each day for 5 days a week for a period of 3 weeks.  All patients were evaluated before chemotherapy and on day 7,14 and 21 of the chemotherapy.

The investigation found that those in the walking had lower levels of fatigue intensity and interference than the control.   They also found that symptom distress, anxiety and depression were lower in the walking group.

"Taken together, our preliminary findings suggest that a brief exercise-driven program, such as the walking exercise program, should be started at the beginning of chemotherapy to decrease chemotherapy-related fatigue," Lai's team concluded. "Standardizing the walking exercise program as part of a chemotherapy-related care model should be feasible and encouraged to improve cancer-related fatigue experiences."

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Two studies reported in the May 1st  edition of the New England Journal of Medicine indicate that there are genetic markers that can make it easier for doctors to determine what type of treatment is the best for individuals with AML,  Acute Myeloid Leukemia.  One study done in Ulm, Germany analyzed the genetic makeup of normal AML cells in 872 patients and uncovered two mutations that cut the risk of relapse and death in half. 

AML, which starts in the bone marrow and often spreads into the blood, can be treated by chemotherapy and/or bone marrow transplant.  Each method carries its own risks, ranging from toxicity to transplant rejection.

Survival rates were calculated  based on the type of treatment and gene mutation each patient had.  The researchers identified some cases where patients may benefit from a transplant and cases where such a procedure carries a high risk.

The second study was done by  by researchers at Ohio State University's Comprehensive Cancer Center.  This research found 7 microRNAs (single-stranded ribonucleic acid molecules) responsible for immune response and which could be helpful in  predicting leukemia recurrence.  

These  studies will be useful in helping researchers find better treatments and helpful to doctors in determining which treatments are appropriate for their patients.  In addition, this may be helpful in eventually having drugs that will  target the genetic mutations identified in these two studies.

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