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

Benzene is only one of many cancer causing agents in petroleum. So I read this with interest.  If federal officials burn some of the oil slick in the Gulf and the smoke heads for Tampa, there are apparently plans in place to evacuate parts of Tampa if necessary.  That seems extreme to me.

As FEMA and other government agencies prepare for what is now being called by some, the worst oil spill disaster in history, plans to evacuate the Tampa Bay area are in place.

The plans would be announed in the event of a controlled burn of surface oil in the Gulf of Mexico, if wind or other conditions are expected to take the toxic fumes through Tampa Bay.

You can read more about this over at the examiner.com

Read through the comments on that page.  There is clearly some conflicting onformation on this.  But it does make sense that the community woudl be worried about any type of oil slick burn off for particularly this reason...the prevailing winds would probably send some level of toxic smoke over Florida.

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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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Four year old Jiang Shubao suffers from aplastic anemia, a rare blood disorder often caused by benzene exposure. The potentially fatal disease disrupts the ability of bone marrow to produce new blood cells.

Like many aplastic anemia patients, weekly blood transfusions keep Shubao's condition under control, but the cost of the transfusions threatens his family's ability to save for a stem-cell transplant. Shubao's doctors say a stem cell transplant would have an 80 to 90 percent chance of curing his condition.

"only a stem-cell transplant can cure the disease and the earlier the better. Blood transfusions can control the disease but to many can affect his immunity and the efficacy of the transplant" -Dr. Chen Jing

Jiang Shubo's family lives in a small village in southwestern China's Guizhou Provence, and is struggling to pay for the treatments their son needs. The family makes 1000 Yuan (US$146) a month and remains 50,000 Yuan short of the needed 100,000 Yuan for a stem cell transplant.

Jiang Shubo's ten year old sister Jiang Yuelan sister has been declared a stem cell match. She is eager to help her brother and paints pictures for anyone who contributes to the cost of the transplant.

"We only have 50,000 Yuan savings, the weekly cost of blood transfusions is 2,300 Yuan. I don't want to use up the savings on blood transfusions." -Zhou Lianying, Jiang Shubao's mother
 

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Opponents of the proposed 12 lane Interstate 5 bridge linking Portland OR. and Vancouver WA., recently rallied in downtown Portland, citing health concerns regarding the project.

The massive bridge is the Columbia River Crossing project's response to a fast growing Northwest population.

Activists present at the rally found fault with 2008 Federal Highway and Transit Administration draft environmental impact statement which found that while increasing traffic drastically, the massive project would somehow lead to pollution reduction of 30 to 90 percent.

A recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report paints a starkly contrasting picture, and expresses concern over how the above figures were drafted. According to EPA documents, the $4.2 billion project would likely lead to increased toxic chemical emissions in an area of Portland already notorious for pollution.

The north and northeast sections of Portland are associated with higher air pollution levels due to freeway proximity and industrial emissions. Recent studies have demonstrated that those living near or on a freeway face increased risk of  benzene exposure. Exposure to the chemical has been linked to serious conditions like aplastic anemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Benzene is just one of many dangerous chemicals found in vehicle emissions.

Sylvia Evans, an environmental justice advocate from north Portland, expressed concern about the project.
 

"It will render that neighborhood uninhabitable, I don't think my health or my neighbors' is worth sacrificing for someone else's privilege to live, work, and play in two different states."

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A Chance to Save A Life

For those suffering from blood disorders caused by benzene exposure, such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myelogenous leukemia, bone marrow stem cell transplants can be a life saving therapy. May is National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) month, is a great time to consider a life saving marrow donation. For the entire month the usual $52 fee for eligibility testing through the NMDP will be waived.  

Modern Marrow Donation

Patients in need of bone marrow transplants require the living stem cells found in healthy bone marrow. While bone marrow transplants of yesteryear involve minor surgery to remove marrow from the hip bones of a donor, today's procedure is far less invasive. The current method, peripheral blood stem cell donation, involves a shot which draws some of the needed stem cells out of the marrow and into the blood. The stem cells are then filtered from the blood. Though the procedure no longer involves actual bone marrow, most still call it a bone marrow donation.

Matching

The most likely match for a successful bone marrow stem cell transplant is a full brother or sister of the recipient.  Other family members, or even complete strangers may be a match.  The NMDP has a database of volunteers willing to donate their bone marrow to strangers. 

For more information on becoming a bone marrow stem cell donor visit the National Marrow Donor  Program website at: www.marrow.org/.

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A Texas woman has just filed a benzene lawsuit against DuPont De Nemours on behalf of her late husband.

Levings alleges that her husband died as a result of benzene exposure while working for the company.  Her Husband worked at DuPont's Sabine River Works facility in Orange County Texas, and died of non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL) in 2008.  

Benzene is a highly carcinogenic organic solvent widely used in the industrial sector.  The chemical is linked to multiple debilitating and deadly diseases in addition to NHL. 

Linda Levings stands a great chance of receiving compensation for her loss.  In recent years many have successfully obtained benzene settlements as a pattern of corporate disregard for workers health and the environment continues to emerge.

Benzene settlements can be quite considerable, below are just a few  2008 verdicts:

• $11.2 million was awarded to New York City after Exxon Mobil intentionally contaminated the City's waterways with benzene.
• $6.6 million was awarded to the family of a 68-year old man who died from benzene exposure after working at Mobil.
• $4.3 million was awarded to the families of four petrochemical workers who were all diagnosed with leukemia following workplace benzene exposure.

The size of a benzene settlement depends on  the degree of negligence on behalf of the defendant, and the severity of the benzene exposure and resulting medical conditions.

Employers have an obligation to provide a safe working environment.  Workers should be provided with proper education about toxic materials they may be exposed to, and maximum protection from those materials.  If you have been sickened by on the job exposure to benzene you may be eligible for monetary compensation.  Contact a medical lawyer without delay,  it costs nothing to discuss your circumstances with most qualified benzene attorneys.

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Many soldiers who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan are suffering from severe health problems that are being linked to the military’s practice of burning waste materials in open pits.  A freshly leaked military document strongly suggests that the Pentagon knowingly exposed US troops at Balad Airbase, in Iraq, to cancer causing toxic chemicals, while publicly declaring the risks to be minimal.

The leaked document is signed by the chief of the Air Force’s aeromedical services.  The report outlines the risks posed to troops from the burn pits of Balad, and lists the numerous carcinogens, including benzene,  arsenic, and dioxins, which are released by the pits.  Aeromedical chief Lt. Colonel James Elliott wrote:

“In my professional opinion, the known carcinogens and respiratory sensitizers released into the atmosphere by the burn pit present both an acute and a chronic health hazard to our troops and the local population,”

The document also quotes a US Army Center For Health Promotion and Preventative Medicine investigator who states that Balad’s burn pit was “the worst environmental site I have ever personally visited, [including] 10 years working clean-up for the army.”

In stark contrast to the above declarations of toxic health dangers, is a “Just the Facts” sheet regarding burn pits in general, issued to troops, by the Pentagon.  Though the sheet acknowledges that 2004-2006 lab tests found “occasional carcinogens,” it also stresses that, “the potential short and long term risks [were] estimated to be low due to the infrequent detections of these chemicals.”

The pentagon report continues:

“Based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidance, long term health effects are not expected to occur from breathing the smoke.”

Soldiers Face Chronic Illness

In a 2008 Army Times investigation, reporter Kelly Kennedy wrote:

“Though military officials say there are no known long-term effects from exposure to burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan, more than 100 service members have come forward to Military Times and Disabled American Veterans with strikingly similar symptoms: chronic bronchitis, asthma, sleep apnea, chronic coughs and allergy-like symptoms. Several also have cited heart problems, lymphoma and leukemia.”

This evidence of systemic top-level disregard for the health of America’s brave enlisted men and women is alarming.  The medical conditions associated with benzene alone are debilitating and even deadly.  Although the Balad pits have recently been replaced with cleaner burning incinerators, there are hundreds of similar pits across Iraq and Afghanistan.

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I just came across this article about a heroic young New Zealand chemist named Terry Collins who was an early pioneer in establishing the dangers that benzene exposure poses to workers.  In 1971 Collins took a summer job to fund his chemistry education.  The work, loading refrigerators onto trucks, brought him into contact with a crew of workers who were using an industrial solvent to clean up excess tar used in the assembly of 1970's refrigerators.   Anyone interested in industrial benzene use and its effects on workers should check out this fascinating article.

"Collins notices that this crew's complaints go beyond the typical rumblings and that they are also eerily similar—nosebleeds, dizziness, fatigue, persistent headaches. The 19-year-old aspiring chemist is concerned. Among all his hours spent in the university teaching labs, he had been reading about the toxicity of benzene. It has dawned on him that the workers may be displaying the classic symptoms of overexposure to benzene, which can be found in industrial cleaning solvents.

He decides to dig deeper. He visits the cabinet cleaning room where the workers use the solvents, estimates the room's dimensions, notes its lack of ventilation, determines how many drums of solvent the workers go through daily. He then calls the producer, posing as a buyer, and learns how much benzene and related aromatics are in the solvent—5% aromatics of which about 1% is benzene. With all of this information, he calculates how much benzene the workers inhale at work.

Even his most conservative estimate points to what he suspected. The workers' exposure is enormous, just through inhalation (not to mention what must be passing through their hands). These workers, simply by doing their job, are being poisoned—literally, not figuratively."

  read more...

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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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 A new benzene exposure test Is generating a buzz in the shipping industry.  The test kits, from a Concateno subsidiary called Medscreen, are a simple and inexpensive way to test mariners for benzene exposure.  The kits have been shortlisted for the 2009 Seatrade Awards in the 'Safety at Sea' category.

Benzene is an organic solvent widely used in industrial and manufacturing processes all over the world.  Exposure to benzene has been linked with serious blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes. Benzene has also been linked to non-hodgkins lymphoma. Exposure to high concentrations can quickly cause death.

Of course maritime workers are at risk because benzene is transported via boat to all corners of the globe.  The primary risk to these workers is leakage during transport, heavy seas and collisions are not uncommon in this line of work.

"Since we have added a low-cost, sensitive benzene test to our range of drug and alcohol services, the kits have been quickly taken up by shipping companies around the world.  Many boats keep a stock of the test on board in case- as happened in Dubai recently- an accident or collision occurs that might involve exposure to benzene."-  Graham Birch, head of sales for Medscreen maritime sector 

The tests require a small amount of urine in the vials provided.  All the packaging needed to send the samples to the lab is included in the kit.   Analysis takes several hours and results can be emailed or faxed less that two days later.

This test kit is a great idea.  I hope to see something similar being added to safety kits across the industrial sector. Many workers have suffered and died as a result of on the job benzene exposure. If you believe that your health has been compromised due to benzene exposure, you should speak with a medical attorney who specializes in benzene cases.  Victims of benzene exposure have been successful in securing monetary damages to cover their medical costs and suffering.  

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Whether you’re looking for federal regulations regarding benzene in the workplace or information on the health effects of benzene exposure, there are a number of valuable resources on the Web to help you in your search. Listed below are just a few:

The Environmental Protection Agency – A general report on benzene, potential sources of exposure and its health hazards can be found here and a fact sheet on how it affects groundwater/drinking water can be found here.
 

Occupational Health and Safety Administration – Provides information on OSHA regulations for benzene in the workplace, including how to recognize and evaluate benzene hazards
 

National Marrow Donor Program – An informational page on acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) can be accessed here.
 

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Great resource for cancers of the blood, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma and acute myelogenous leukemia, which are both sometimes caused by benzene exposure.

 

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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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Prolonged or excessive benzene exposure can lead to significant health problems such as aplastic anemia, leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. For this reason, it’s important that you know the limits for benzene exposure set by the relevant state and federal regulatory agencies if you work in a high risk occupation.

OSHA –The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a long-term exposure (8-hour shift) limit of 1 part per million (ppm) and a short-term (15 minutes) exposure limit of 5 ppm.

NIOSH –The CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has a long-term (10-hour) exposure limit of 0.1 ppm and a short-term exposure limit of 1 ppm.

ACGIH –The American Conference of Industrial Hygienists has a long-term (8-hour shift) exposure limit of 0.5 ppm and a short-term exposure limit of 2.5 ppm.

These limits are set for airborne exposure; however, benzene exposure may also occur through ingestion and skin contact. Symptoms of benzene exposure include dizziness, drowsiness, tremors, loss of consciousness, vomiting and rapid heartbeat, to name a few.

Any time these or other unusual symptoms are seen after exposure to benzene, it’s vital that medical attention be sought immediately.



 

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A local Manhattan official is opposed to gas drilling in the region for fear that the process will result in contamination of the area’s drinking water. Toxic chemicals are used in the drilling process, and Borough President Scott Stringer believes those chemicals will pollute the water and cause severe health problems among area residents.

Gas drilling is increasingly common as the U.S. attempts to become more self-sufficient with regard to energy production. However, according to a report released by Stringer, there have been at least two dozen reports of serious health issues linked to gas drilling in nine different states.

“In Wyoming, the water there where the drilling took place – 1,500 times the safe level for benzene. A house in Ohio exploded because the methane found in the tap water ignited,” he said.

Benzene is particularly toxic to humans and has been shown to cause rare cancers like leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

If you are concerned about gas drilling where you live, you may want to consider contacting your local officials to find out what kind of measures are being taken to protect area residents.

 

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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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A man who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) in 2006 has filed a lawsuit against 26 companies after realizing that his cancer is probably related to decades of occupational benzene exposure.

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is one of several rare cancers caused by benzene, and Calvin Johns suffered plenty of exposure to benzene during his years as a laborer at Sinclair Refining Company, Clark Oil, Premcor and Apex – all of which have been named as defendants in Johns’ suit.

Oil refineries, in particular, should know the risks their workers face and should take measures to reduce the risk of toxic exposures. Many successful claims have been made against large corporations, allowing victims of benzene exposure to obtain compensation for their physical, emotional and financial damages.

In this lawsuit, Johns and his wife are seeking damages for medical expenses, physical pain and mental anguish, among other things.



 

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Benzene is a cancer causing organic solvent widely used in the industrial sector. If you work in one of the following industries you need to know what to do in the event of exposure.

• Petrochemical manufacturing
• Petroleum refining
• Coke and coal chemical manufacturing
• Rubber and tire manufacturing
• Gasoline storage, shipment, and retail operations
• plastics and rubber manufacturing
• Shoe manufacturing

In the unfortunate event of on the job benzene exposure, there are actions you can take to limit health risks as much as possible. The following steps are recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Breathing Benzene

• Move away from exposed area immediately

Benzene on Clothing 

• Remove contaminated clothing immediately. Do not pull clothing over your head, but cut it off instead.
• If helping others remove clothes, wear gloves, and avoid any skin contact with contaminated articles.
• Place contaminated clothing in plastic bag.  
• Place anything used to handle clothing in plastic bag. 

Benzene on skin 

• Wash with large amounts of soap and water

Benzene in Eyes

• Rinse eyes with plain water for 10-15 minutes 
• Remove contact lenses and place with contaminated clothing, don't re-use
• Eyeglasses can be washed with soap and water and re-worn.

Benzene Ingestion

• Seek immediate medical attention
• Do no induce vomiting

Benzene related accidents can be kept to a minimum by responsible storage and handling methods. If your health has been compromised by on the job benzene exposure, you should speak to a benzene attorney without delay.

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Legislators in New York are seeking the removal of tolls at the Grand Island bridges after a study showed that benzene levels in the area are 100 times higher than what the state considers safe. Benzene is a carcinogen and it’s released by cars idling at the tolls.

The benzene emissions are a major health risk to residents in the Tonawanda area. A local legislator said she is encouraging the governor to use stimulus funds to remove the barriers.

If you have concerns about benzene exposure, either through vehicle emissions or groundwater contamination from industrial waste, it might be in your best interest to contact your local Congress person to find out what – if anything – is being done about the problem.

 

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Shell Oil Products is planning to check for benzene contamination in the soil and groundwater near Roxana, Illinois this spring. The check seems to come a little late, considering it stems from a benzene leak that occurred more than two decades ago.

In 1986, an underground pipeline owned and operated by Shell Oil leaked 8,400 gallons of benzene into the area surrounding Wood River Refinery. There is little documentation regarding cleanup efforts, and what cleanup was done seems to have been limited to surface liquid recovery.

However, more recent groundwater sampling from monitoring wells in the vicinity of the plant has shown increased levels of benzene. Officials say there is little possibility that the benzene has contaminated water supply wells for area residents, but this seems unlikely given the extent of the contamination. Plus, exposure to benzene may also occur as a result of vapor migration.

Benzene exposure poses a number of serious health risks, and residents who have developed health problems such as anemia or cancer should consider discussing their legal options with an attorney.


 

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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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Natural gas drilling in the Barnett Shale area of Texas produces some 260 tons of air pollution emissions each day. The area is highly populated, and those living in the vicinity are likely being exposed to dangerous pollutants such as methane and carbon dioxide, as well as known carcinogens like benzene and formaldehyde.

However, this need not be the case. According to a new study, the air pollution in the Barnett Shale can be controlled existing technology.

“We have come up with viable solutions. The good news is that there are a lot of viable technologies to reduce the emissions, “ said Ramon Alvarez of the Environmental Defense Fund, who conducted the study together with Al Armendariz of Southern Methodist University.

Hopefully, measures will soon be taken to implement these viable solutions to prevent further toxic exposure to those living in the Barnett Shale region of Texas.

 

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Work exposure to organic solvents like benzene and carbon tetrachloride increase the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in women, a new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology suggests.

NHL is a term used to describe several malignancies of the immune system and diagnoses of NHL have continued to increase over the past several decades. The National Cancer Institute reports that more than 66,000 Americans were diagnosed with NHL in 2008 and over 19,000 died from the disease.

The question is whether on-the-job exposure is behind the increase in cases of NHL, so researchers examined the relationship between the two and found that exposure to:
 

• Organic solvents containing chlorine increased the risk of NHL by 40%
• Organic solvents containing carbon tetrachloride more than doubled the risk of NHL
• Formaldehyde increased the risk of NHL by 30%

The study findings also suggested that exposure to benzene, a known carcinogen, also raised the risk of non-Hodgkins lymphoma in women.




 

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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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For more than 25 years, Woburn, Massachusetts has been the site of an intensive cleanup effort to remove pollutants such as benzene (a volatile organic compound known to cause leukemia), arsenic and ammonia. The area has long been deemed one of the most toxic in the nation.

100+ Years of Pollution

The pollution began over a century ago during the Civil War when the area became home to numerous manufacturing facilities – facilities that manufactured chemicals and glue. As the cleanup nears completion, the EPA is looking at redeveloping the 245-acre area.

At Least One Death

The agency has already approved a retail complex and Anderson Regional Transportation Center, which is named after Jimmy Anderson, a young boy who died of cancer in 1981. His mother filed a civil lawsuit over the toxic pollution.

Others who have been injured by the contamination in Woburn may also be able to file a civil lawsuit against responsible party(s).

 

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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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Do you live near a freeway? A pilot study conducted by the Utah Department of Health in 2006 concluded that children living near freeways have a higher risk of developing leukemia as a result of the benzene emitted into the air from vehicle exhausts.

The study is not conclusive but does fit in with other evidence suggesting that the risk of cancer is higher for children who live near heavily trafficked areas. Rather than waiting around for more conclusive studies, clean air advocates like Dr. Brian Moench are saying action is needed.

"The medical data would strongly suggest that if we can reduce these kinds of emissions to our airshed, that we will have less incidence of cancer, especially among young children," Moench said.

If you live in a heavily trafficked urban area, you may wish to write to your local government official regarding possible regulatory actions.

 

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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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An increasing number of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are developing illnesses that seem to be linked to burn pits used for disposing of hazardous materials. Approximately one-fifth of the veterans who have reported their ailments have leukemia or lymphoma.

Both leukemia and lymphoma are rare diseases sometimes caused by benzene exposure. Benzene is one of a number of toxins that tests have shown to be released from the burn pits.

Noxious Fumes Emitted

According to one of several class-action lawsuits filed on behalf of ailing service members, defense contractor Kellogg, Brown & Root LLC used the pits to burn hazardous and biohazardous materials such as:

• Tires
• Trucks
• Munitions boxes
• Hydraulic fluids
• Lithium batteries
• Plastics and petroleum products

The noxious fumes created by these burn pits would drift over the nearby bases, exposing service members stationed there.

Range of Health Issues

In addition to lymphoma and leukemia, veterans have reported health issues such as bronchitis, asthma, heart problems, sleep apnea, gastrointestinal illness and “weeping lesions.” Thirty of 150 veterans who have complained of health problems have joined a class-action seeking damages for:

• Emotional distress
• Physical injuries
• Medical treatment
• Medical monitoring
• Fear of future disease

If you have questions or concerns about benzene exposure, you may wish to contact an attorney about your rights. You may be entitled to compensation.

 

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More than $900,000 was paid to eight plaintiffs involved in an ongoing legal battle against Kerr-McGee Chemical, the plaintiffs’ benzene exposure attorneys announced this week. The lawsuit was originally filed in 2005, and the company has delayed payment to the plaintiffs since an arbitration decision last year.

Tronox LLC, which now owns Kerr-McGee, recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and in January asked for relief from payment under that filing. Attorneys for the plaintiffs argued that the company had sufficient funds in at least five different accounts to pay the money owed, and Tronox was finally obliged to pay.

Plaintiffs Claimed Health Problems from Toxic Exposure
Kerr-McGee manufactured railroad ties at its Avoca, Pennsylvania plant for approximately 40 years, releasing extremely toxic chemicals – such as benzene, arsenic and creosote – into the air. The original lawsuit involved nearly 3,500 plaintiffs who claimed they developed cancer and other health problems as a result of exposure to these chemicals.

 

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Four out of 12 monitoring wells at the site of a former gas plant in Oneonta’s Neahwa Park (New York) are still showing excessive levels of benzene and several other dangerous chemicals even after millions of dollars have been spent over the last decade on clean-up efforts.

Any exposure to benzene is too much exposure, as benzene has been linked to a variety of serious and rare illnesses such as:

• Aplastic anemia
• Myelodysplastic syndrome
• Acute myelogenous leukemia
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Groundwater in the area is not used for drinking, but there is a risk to people wading in the nearby creek. Individuals in the area who have developed a benzene-related illness may wish to seek the advice of a benzene exposure attorney.




 

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South Carolina may face sanctions from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency if it doesn’t come up with the money necessary to clean up some 3,000 sites contaminated with benzene and other dangerous chemicals.  

The chemicals are leaking from underground fuel tanks and polluting nearby groundwater. Contamination caused by the leaks is not only affecting property values, but also raising health concerns among residents.

Benzene and cancers such as leukemia have long been linked, and testing has revealed that the toxic chemical has tainted wells in some of the state’s rural neighborhoods.

Officials at the Department of Health and Environmental Control have known about the contamination caused by leaks for years, but the agency has only made two requests in more than a decade for clean up money.



 

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Recent reports claim that U.S. Steel is planning on spending $1.4 million in an attempt to treat water tainted by benzene. The decision involves building 11 wells surrounding its Gary Works complex near Lake Michigan to contain benzene-tainted water. Researchers found that the water has been leaking into the lake for several months and potentially putting the surrounding community at risk. The water was found to be contaminated by the toxic chemical known as benzene after officials analyzed the soil and groundwater.

Although neither U.S. Steel or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency officials are sure about how much benzene was in the lake, the company has concluded that there are benzene levels of 1 to 3 parts per million.

The EPA Discovers Benzene

"It's not a level that's showing any immediate risk," explains the project manager of the EPA, Tamara Ohl. "But it's high enough. Clearly, we don't want a situation where benzene is going into the lake.” 

Officials say that the benzene came from an older tank farm at the coke plant, which was removed several years ago. The tainted water was reportedly caused by a large crack in a lake breakwall that surrounds the plant. However, even though health officials have found what is causing the exposure to the lake, repairing the wall would require a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit, would not fix the tainted groundwater problem, said U.S. Steel spokesman Charles Rice. 

U.S. Steel is expected to submit a treatment plan to state and federal environmental regulators by the end of this month. Plant officials said they hope to have the system operational by the summer or fall. 



 

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Recent reports from Stanford University claim that the amount of toxins in home carpets is equivalent to the toxins, like benzene, that are given off in cigarettes. Dr. Wayne Ott PhD explains that oftentimes community leaders put too much blame on industry in terms of benzene exposure when in fact the causes of many illnesses is right beneath are feet, literally.

“We have measurements, lots and lots of measurements, lots of studies, showing that most of the pollution and most of the exposure to toxic chemicals occurs in your homes, like in your carpet. And these are all things that you can change easily,” says Dr. Ott.

Studies Reveal New Source of Exposure

EPA studies of human exposure to air pollutants, like the toxic chemical benzene, show that indoor air levels of many pollutants are two to five times higher than any outdoor levels. Researchers estimate that the majority of people spend about eighty to ninety percent of their time indoors. So with all of this time spent on the floor, the research proves that toddlers can ingest anywhere from 0.02 to 10 grams of dust and soil each day. And much of this dust and soil contains harmful chemicals that exist within the carpet and are brought in by outdoor sources.

For years, outside sources and certain industries known to use benzene in their products and work days have been the primary source of blame for benzene exposure. Although benzene does cause harm to many through these sources, Dr. Ott explains that in many cases, people have to look no further than themselves and their own homes for the bad air they breathe.

Cigarette smoke, which contains benzene, has been found to be the number one source of indoor toxic air. Pollution meters can reportedly detect the harm of cigarette smoke lingering in the air for up to five hours.

 

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According to recent reports, leukemia is the most common type of cancer to inflict children. This type of cancer affects the blood-forming tissues that enable the bone marrow and lymphatic systems to function properly. Leukemia typically begins in the white blood cells, before it spreads into the red blood cells and platelets of the body.

The white blood cells are potent infection fighters that typically grow and divide in a somewhat orderly way, depending upon how the body needs to use them. However, for patients who are suffering from leukemia, the bone marrow produces a large number of abnormal white blood cells that typically don't function properly.

Leukemia Affects Adults Too

Although research shows that leukemia is most common in children, it isn’t simply a children's disease. Doctors have found that the disease has four main types and many subtypes — and only some of these are common in children. The disease is classified upon how fast the leukemia progresses, according to researchers.

For those who have acute leukemia, the abnormal blood cells have immature blood cells, also called, blasts. In this case, they aren’t able to carry out their normal work, and instead they multiply rapidly, so the disease worsens quickly. In cases of acute leukemia these blasts happen so often and at such a rapid pace that patients are required to get aggressive and timely treatment.

There are several factors that play a part in why adults develop leukemia, the most common one being exposure to benzene. Benzene is a toxic chemical that is typically used as an additive in gasoline and can be found in sodas and cigarettes. Those who inhale, ingest or handle the chemical are at high risk of developing leukemia and other forms of life altering cancers.

 

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Reports claim that the air in Alabama’s four largest cities contains such high amounts of chemicals like benzene that it could potentially danger thousands of people. The reports stem from a recent study conducted by environmentalists within the state.

The report was put together by the Conservation Alabama Foundation and researchers discovered that the state’s major cities had excessive levels of toxic chemicals. The cities that are supposedly at high risk are Birmingham, Mobile, Montgomery and Huntsville. And according to Adam Snyder, the executive director of the organization, Phenix City is also in harm’s way.

Study Reveals Citizens Are at Risk

Snyder claims that of the 15 chemicals found to be inflicting the cities, benzene was at the top of the list for being the most life threatening and apparent. Data showed that the amount of benzene in the air is “far beyond” limits that have been established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Another thirteen of the chemicals found have also reportedly been linked to cancer.

“Our goal with this report is to elevate the issue so something can be done with it,” says Snyder. “We want the state to do something to clean up the air.”

Many researchers are also concerned since the report doesn’t conclude that these five cities are the only ones in the state with air pollution problems. These cities are just the ones where monitoring has been conducted.

“There could be more out there. We just don’t have the data,” Snyder states.

Exposure to benzene has been linked with various forms of cancer, including leukemia, for which a cure has not yet been found.
 

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According to recent reports, students in Wicomico County, Maryland, are more likely to be exposed to benzene toxins when they’re outside than their fellow classmates in the Lower Shore counties.

The findings were revealed in a recent eight-month USA Today analysis of Environmental Protection Agency pollution that found several areas through the U.S. where toxic chemicals in the air were at troubling levels. Although most schools within Wicomico County had a better than the national average when tested, many of them were found to have dangerously low air quality levels.

Researchers Test for Benzene

The study was conducted by setting up monitoring devices at 95 schools within 30 states in America. Researchers from John Hopkins University and the University of Maryland analyzed several samples from these monitoring devices. This way, there were able to see how pollution levels could make people ill or even increase their risk of various cancers.

The study revealed that the air quality in Beaver Run was volatile and the EPA was able to determine that the people within this community, in particular the children attending the schools directly affected by the poor air and water quality, were extremely risky.

Beaver Run is a school with about 570 children ranging to pre-kindergarten to the second grade. And it was here that scientists found the benzene levels to be extremely risky. The experts who were in charge of the monitoring referred to the levels as being “significant” and they intend on conducting further investigations and taking action to ensure the safety of these children.


 

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Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a cancer of the blood that can have a strong impact on the red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Research continues to be done on the illness and doctors are now better fine tuning the risk factors that are associated with myelodysplastic syndrome

.
Among the most common risk factors that have been discovered are smoking, environmental exposures, cancer treatments and congenital diseases. In some cases, people have developed MDS with no apparent causes able to be linked; however, in the majority of cases, these risk factors have been associated with myelodysplastic syndrome.

A Detailed Look at Myelodysplastic Syndrome Risk Factors

Smoking- Researchers have concluded that the only lifestyle-related myelodysplastic syndrome risk factor is smoking. Although it’s old news that smoking is responsible for many types of cancer, including mouth, throat and lung cancer, not many realize that it can affect cells that don’t come into direct contact with smoke. 


Environmental Exposures: Environmental risk factors, most notably exposure to benzene, have been found to be the cause of MDS in many cases. When people are exposed over an extended period of time to benzene and other toxic chemicals, their chances of developing MDS and other life-altering diseases are increased.

Cancer Treatment: Cancer patients who have been treated with certain chemotherapy drugs have been found to be more likely to develop MDS. And combining these medications with radiation therapy only increases this risk further.

Congenital Diseases: Fanconi anemia is an inherited disorder that’s associated with an increased risk of developing leukemia or MDS as a child or young adult.


 

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Novartis AG recently announced that their new cancer drug, Tasigna, is showing promise as an effective treatment for patients suffering from leukemia. According to a spokesperson for the company, Tasigna is effective and helpful for newly diagnosed patients who a living with life threatening forms of leukemia.

Data from the two mid-stage clinical trials was presented at the American Society of Hematology and proved that there was a fast elimination of cancer cells in 96 percent of patients who were given Tasigna as a form of treatment. Patients who were suffering from Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia were reportedly particularly responsive to the drug.  

"Tasigna now shows potential to become the treatment of choice for certain newly diagnosed patients with chronic myeloid leukemia," Novartis stated to reporters.

Tasigna Details

Tasigna has been approved for patients who are no longer responding to Glivec, which until now has been Novartis’ second-biggest seller and the most effective treatment for this deadly form of leukemia.  
Data which was presented to a panel of researchers showed that an estimated nine out of ten patients suffering from this type of leukemia are still living in a healthy state after enduring seven years of a clinical trial with Glivec. This proves to be the longest overall survival for patients who are living with Philadelphia chromosome-positive CML.
Causes of CML

Leukemia and many other forms of cancer are commonly linked to exposure to the toxic chemical benzene. Benzene is a known carcinogen that is commonly used in various types of dyes, sodas, and is used as an additive in gasoline.

Those who are exposed to benzene over a long duration of time are at high risk of developing leukemia and other life altering illnesses due to the toxicity of the chemical.
 

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Reports are talking about the International Fuel Quality Center's (IFQC) recent ranking if the top 100 countries in regards to benzene content standards in their gasoline. According to these reports, Colombia ranked number one with the lowest benzene limits and earliest implementation of any benzene related-laws. Canada was ranked at second place while Luxembourg came in third.
 
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified the chemical known as benzene as being a Group A, known human carcinogen. This toxic solvent has been found to cause various illness to the bone marrow and bloodstream, and is most notable responsible for causing leukemia among those exposed. It can be found in naturally crude oil and is also used as an additive in certain dyes, for the production of synthetic rubbers and in cigarettes. Officials for the EPA say that controlling the amount of benzene in gasoline is the most effective way to limit its emissions from vehicles.

"The current global trend is to reduce benzene content in gasoline, as it's also seen as the most effective way to reduce human exposure to the chemical," explains Lisa Kiuru, executive director, IFQC.

How Do Most Countries Rank?

The rankings show that a majority of the countries throughout the world don't have any individual specifications for gasoline and low level gasoline-ethanol blends, like Colombia.
 
European countries reportedly topped the ranking, along with many Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan, which was tied at 18th with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

The U.S. is ranked at 67th place, due to the fact that these rankings are based upon national maximum allowance standards and U.S. standards were last updated in 1997. Researchers did note though, that the state of California could have ranked first if it was its own country because its gasoline benzene limit is 0.7 vol%.

The complete ranking the top 100 countries by gasoline benzene content standards can be found on the IFQC's web site.

 

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According to a recent study out of Italy, there is new evidence that exposure to benzene can not only increase people’s risk of leukemia, but it’s also linked to multiple myeloma. For years, benzene, which is a toxic chemical that is commonly used as an additive in gasoline, in the production of synthetic rubbers and sodas, has been linked to leukemia and aplastic anemia. However, researchers are now finding that benzene is the cause if other illness as well.

The study was conducted by Dr. Adele Seniori Constantini from the Center for Study and Prevention of Cancer, along with some of her colleagues. The researchers reportedly found that benzene can cause an increased risk of chronic lymphoid leukemia as well multiple myeloma. Two other chemicals, xylene and toluene were also linked with exposure to benzene.

 Study Reveals New Findings

Although Constantini has revealed the results from the new study, benzene’s link with multiple myeloma are reportedly still under debate. In order to investigate the results of benzene exposure, the team of researchers identified all known cases of blood and lymphatic cancers in people ages 20 to 74 in 11 different parts of Italy.

They also looked at 586 cases of leukemia found in seven of the regions and compared chemical exposures for individuals who were sick and to those based on occupation.

The study found that medium to high levels of benzene exposure nearly doubled the risk of these two blood cancers. The more intense levels of exposure were to participants and the longer it lasted, the greater the risk that they would develop a life altering illness.

"Our results, even if based on small numbers, are in agreement with the hypothesis that acute myeloid leukemia risk following benzene exposure declines in time while chronic lymphoid leukemia and multiple myeloma risks are seen over a longer latency period,” claims the research team.

 

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A wastewater treatment company in Shreveport, Louisiana, is currently being investigated due to recent findings that benzene and other toxic chemicals from the plant were being dumped into the Red River. The facility was reportedly shut down in October 2007 after the river was found to be polluted. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality conducted several tests on the water and publicly revealed that hazardous waste from the plant was being disposed of in the river.

Among the toxins that were found to be polluting the river were benzene, toluene and xylene. Each of these chemicals can be extremely dangerous to those exposed and have been linked to various forms of cancer, including leukemia, lung cancer and aplastic anemia.

Ongoing Waste Problems

Despite the legal troubles the waste facility, known as CCS, is facing they are reportedly still seeking permission to discharge wastewater and storm water into areas where they would eventually find their way into the Red River.

Reports from a review of federal and state records related to CCS reveals:

• The illegal dumping of wastewater into Red River
• Four hidden tanks of hazardous waste that were supposedly identified by company officials as treated wastewater
• Concerns about accepting and treating wastewaters in early 2008

The findings of benzene are of most concern to health officials since the chemical is a known carcinogen and can cause fatal illnesses to those exposed over an extended period of time. Benzene can be found in gasoline, cigarettes and sodas.

 

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Members of the Edison Wetlands Association, an environmental group in New Jersey had been holding protests in front of the Basell USA chemical plant claiming that they are exposing the community to benzene. The group claims that the plant has been seeping toxic chemicals into the local Raritan River.

The rally, which began on November 12, has drawn over 20 people who have remained committed to seeking answers regarding the toxic leak for weeks. However, despite the obvious signs that benzene is still a problem in the area, Executive Director of the EWA, Robert Spiegel, denies that benzene is still seeping into the river.

"We wanted to make sure we have a more public presence here, so that the companies know that we are going to be out here every two weeks until they clean this up, because this is a disaster, this is an environmental disaster area out here, and for them to leave it one day is, in my opinion, borders on criminal," says Spiegel.

Benzene Problems Persist

The area surrounding the river has been an ongoing subject of debate due to questions regarding whether benzene is still putting the community at risk. The environmental group claims that toxic chemicals, like benzene, from the plant have been improperly contained in the ground and water. This has resulted in extensive damage to the plant and animal life in the surrounding areas and has also created a public health hazard.




 

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Residents in Cadillac, Michigan, are voicing their concern over groundwater contamination in Cedar Creek Township. According to reports, a local resident recently had samples taken from trees on his land, which is about one mile northwest of Wexford County landfill, due to his growing concerns that they were contaminated by dangerous chemicals.

Months later, Donald Alger discovered that his original intuition was correct and the trees were indeed contaminated with four types of volatile compounds. Results showed that the trees were contaminated with benzene, toluene, styrene and tetracloroethylene.

Land Contaminated with Benzene

The land, which was originally purchased to serve as the home to Alger’s shiitake mushroom growing operation, was found to be highly contaminated with benzene and other toxic chemicals. As a result, not only were all of the plants ruined, but these chemicals were seeping into the neighbor’s yards and contaminated their land and groundwater as well. Alger immediately knew exactly who to blame, the nearby landfill.

DEQ Fights Back

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality reportedly has been attempting to fight back against Alger and his claims regarding the landfill being the place to blame. However, Alger isn’t the only one pointing fingers, the entire community is up in arms and are concerned that they could now be the victims of benzene exposure.

Benzene is a highly toxic carcinogen that can be potentially fatal to those who inhale, ingest or handle it over an extended period of time. Since many of the plants on Alger’s land just showed signs of harm recently, residents are concerned that this benzene issue could be something that was ongoing without their knowledge.

"They’ve dirtied up my property," stated Alger.

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Recent reports are being exposed regarding an event that took place in July, which could prove to put many lives at risk. In mid-summer a hydrologist reportedly dropped a plastic sampling pipe nearly 300 feet down a water well in Sublette County, Wyoming. What he discovered next was anything but comforting for the rural community. The water below was found to be brown, oily and contained a foul smell. When tested, the water was found to contain benzene, a known carcinogen that has been linked to aplastic anemia.

The amount of benzene found in the water was supposedly 1,500 times the level safe for human beings. When the news was released, state and federal regulatory agencies were sent into a frenzy. Aplastic anemia is a potentially fatal condition for which some treatments can't cure.
 
Investigation Ensues Regarding Benzene Problems

After the benzene-filled water discovery ProPublica found that water contamination in the several other drilling areas throughout the country are more prevalent than what meets EPA standards. However, in each case found, it was difficult for researchers to pinpoint exactly what was causing the contamination and measure it across the environment accordingly.

"I am looking more and more at water quality issues…because of a growing concern," explains Joyel Dhieux, a drilling field inspector who handles environmental review at the EPA's regional offices in Denver. "But if you don't know what's in it I don't think it's possible."

Aplastic Anemia Scare

Aside from the obvious panic that was sent through the small Wyoming County and many others with this sudden water contamination problem, is the risk at the core of the issue: cancer. Benzene has been known to cause aplastic anemia and leukemia in those exposed over extended periods of time. Although aplastic anemia, which is an illness of the blood cells, isn't always severe, aplastic anemia treatments vary and aren't always effective in helping those with the health condition. As a result, many member of the community are getting physicals and have a growing concern for their own health as they educate themselves about benzene and aplastic anemia treatments available.

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Each year more people are diagnosed with leukemia and other forms of cancer; however, cancer treatments have also come a long way as more research and discoveries are made. Pills and various drugs have replaced bone marrow transplants for some patients and there are now genetic tests that can improve cancer care.

The staff at Park Ridge Hospital in North Carolina was recently recognized for consistently staying on top of advancements and technology as it continues to move forward. The Cancer Services and Infusion Center was one of 66 facilities in the nation to receive the 2007 Commission on Cancer Outstanding Achievement Award by the American College of Surgeons.

American College of Surgeons Awards Center

The American College of Surgeons helps to determine whether the quality of care offered by various health facilities meets standards and if the patients are getting the latest in care. Even though it was Park Ridge’s first time going through this judging process, the hospital was commended with the award.

The center treats patients with all types of cancer, particularly leukemia, which can be caused by exposure to the known carcinogen, benzene. Benzene is a toxic chemical that can cause life threatening illnesses like leukemia when it’s ingested, inhaled or handled. Those who develop leukemia as the result of benzene exposure often have to go through chemotherapy at Park Ridge as their form of treatment. The infusion center at the facility, where patients receive their chemotherapy, is the only hospital based outpatient infusion cancer program in the area.

There’s also a hospital blood bank where patients can receive a transfusion followed by chemotherapy given in a comfortable setting. The center has 19 nurses employed with chemotherapy and biotherapy certification, as well as six nurses who have oncology certification for patients.


 

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Aplastic anemia is an illness that can have a negative effect on the white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in the body. When a patient is diagnosed with aplastic anemia it's because their stem cells in the bone marrow have been damaged and therefore aren't producing new, healthy blood cells. In many aplastic anemia cases, the cause of this damage is unknown; however, benzene exposure and intense radiation have been linked to the condition over the years.

In more than half of the cases, the cause of aplastic anemia can be unknown though and for these people, the diagnosis can be that much more difficult. Not knowing what is causing your body's sudden falter can be a very alarming thing to experience and for this reason it's suggested that many patients receive supportive therapy in addition to their chemotherapy and other forms of therapy they may be receiving.

Potential Causes of Aplastic Anemia

Aplastic anemia is a difficult health condition to diagnose since the symptoms, such as easy bruising, excessive bleeding and fatigue can be similar to other health conditions.  However, once a patient is thought to have the disease the next question at hand is, what caused aplastic anemia? There are two types of aplastic anemia and with each of them, are different causes:

Acquired Aplastic Anemia- Aplastic anemia that develops as the result of environmental factors. The most common factor is exposure to benzene, a toxic chemical found in gasoline, sodas, cigarettes and certain dyes.

Hereditary Aplastic Anemia- In some cases aplastic anemia can be inherited, much like other genetic disorders like Fanconi anemia and Shwachman-Diamond syndrome.

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A couple living in Arizona recently filed a lawsuit in the Eastern District of Texas claiming wrongful exposure to benzene. The suit filed states that the plaintiff, Brian Foray, was wrongly exposed to the toxic chemical benzene while working for 17 years as a mechanic and maintenance worker. Twelve years after his exposure, Foray has been diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, which is a sometimes fatal condition that is linked to benzene exposure.

After receiving his diagnosis, Foray and his wife, Francesca, have chosen to take action on their behalf and in the name of so many others who may have suffered as the result of employer negligence. The suit has been filed against Safety-Kleen Systems Inc., which is a corporation based out of Plano, Texas.

Benzene Details and Its Link to MDS

Benzene is a colorless liquid that has been labeled a known carcinogen since research has shown its obvious link to various cancers like leukemia and lung cancer. The chemical is often used as an additive in gasoline, soda, and is contained in cigarettes. Myelodysplastic syndromes, or MDS, are known as a group of diseases that affect the bone marrow. Although MDS is a somewhat rare disease, in a majority of cases it has been found to be associated with benzene exposure.

Foray says that while working for the defendant, he cleaned parts and heavy equipment with substances containing benzene. The complaint also states that Safety-Kleen manufactured and sold parts that were washed in benzene, which as a result exposed the workers to the toxin. The suit states the defendant acted with negligence and is to blame for Foray's current health condition.
 

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According to recent reports, health officials in Reading, Pennsylvania have found asbestos and benzene on a former industrial site. The toxic chemicals have become quite the controversy in the town since the Reading School District planned to build three schools on the property.

According to district officials, the plan, until the recent chemicals were exposed, was to build a 300-student elementary school on the former Luden’s Candy property. The long-term goal for the property was to build seven new schools over the next three years. The site was sold to the district by The Hershey Co. for $3.85 million in June.

Benzene Found at Site

William F. Cinfici, a board member in Reading claims that just last week the site tested positive for both benzene and asbestos. Both of these substances are known carcinogens and can be fatal to those who are exposed over time. Since the findings, the school district has terminated the sales and has been looking for other pieces of property to build the smaller, safer schools they originally set out to develop.

“The board is doing its due diligence,” says Dr. Thomas R. Chapman Jr., superintendent.
Although Chapman and the other school officials were disappointed with the tests results, they understand that building the schools would be far too risky for employees, children and the community as a whole.

Dangers of Benzene Exposure

Benzene is a commonly used chemical for the production of dyes, as an additive in gasoline and in the manufacturing of synthetic rubbers, amongst other things. When benzene is inhaled, ingested or handled it can be extremely toxic and even fatal. Various forms of cancer such as leukemia, lung cancer and MDS have been linked to benzene exposure and as a result health officials across the country are consistently testing and researching industrial sites like the one in Reading to prevent benzene emissions.
 

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The Simmes family, who owns the Simmes Ranch northwest of the Texaco gasoline refinery in Montana, recently filed a suit against several oil refineries. The lawsuit claims that the refineries are emitting large amounts of benzene, which is a known carcinogen, and putting the nearby community at risk.

The Simmes family says their land and underground water has become polluted with benzene and other toxins from the refineries leaking storage tanks. This is not the first benzene related lawsuit that has been filed in Cascade County. According to reports, a lawsuit filed by the Sunburst School District in 2001 against the refineries resulted in a $16 million settlement in the district’s favor. However, this case still isn’t completely settled seeing as the jury still needs to look again at the negotiations between Texaco and the state Department of Environmental Quality before awarding $25 million in punitive damages.

Benzene Lawsuit Details

The benzene lawsuit file names Chevron, Texaco and Pacific Hide and Fur Depot, the company that bought the Texaco facility in 1961, in the lawsuit. The benzene problems were originally discovered in 2004 when the DEQ investigated the areas surrounding the refineries and discovered a second plume of underground contaminants where two storage tanks once sat on the refineries properties.

“I would hope that this be the case that gets to trial much faster than the last one did,” says Mark Kovacich, the attorney for the Simmes family. The lawsuit is asking for the companies to pay for punitive damages and for the cleanup of the site.

 Benzene is a toxic chemical that can lead to the development of leukemia, MDS, and other forms of cancer when people are exposed over an extended period of time. The chemical is often used as an additive in gasoline and hundreds of lawsuits have been filed in the past few years against companies like Texaco involving benzene exposure.

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LyondellBasdell Industries is based in Houston and manufactures products “essential to the quality of life and the mobility of people.” However, the safety and environmental care with which the company runs their business is currently being questioned by the city. Houston’s mayor, Bill White, has requested that a regulatory permit be implemented at the Houston refinery and has voiced his concern for benzene emissions.

White wants to reduce the amount of emissions at the refinery by 41 percent, but LyondellBasell doesn’t feel such a regulation is necessary. A spokesperson for the refinery says that “While we do not agree with the assumptions made in the city's filing, we are encouraged that the city has finally elected to utilize the regulatory process developed through legislative authority rather than the extralegal procedures previously pursued.”

The Dangers of Benzene

The debate regarding a permit has become heated due to the severity of the topic at hand. Benzene is a toxic chemical and known carcinogen that has been causing more harm than good in the city of Houston in recent years. Benzene is often used as an additive in gasoline and is also typically used in the production of synthetic rubbers and various dyes.

When people are exposed to benzene over an extended period of time, they are put at risk of developing life-threatening illnesses like leukemia, MDS, and lung cancer. The problem is, which coincides with White’s concerns for Houston residents and the refinery’s workers, many people are exposed to the substance without their knowledge. In these cases they develop somewhat common symptoms like easy bruising and infections before being diagnosed with something more severe than the common cold.

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As the season changes more and more Americans are turning to their fireplaces, bonfires and woodstoves to keep warm at night. And there’s no better place to spend the holidays than with your loved ones beside a fire; however, new reports have surfaced regarding the toxic chemicals that can be emitted through fires and the effect these chemicals could have on your health and the environment.

Studies have specifically focused on the air quality in the Portland metro region, which does not have a history of being pristine or healthy. According to reports from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, fourteen percent of the days in September were categorized as being moderately polluted. Reports prove that from October first and eighth, two days had moderate levels of pollution in Portland, which is 25 percent. Among the chemicals that have been found in the air is benzene, a known carcinogen linked to leukemia.

The Hazards of Wood Smoke

In order for health officials to maintain control over what is being emitted into our air, the DEQ collects information from air monitors before raw data is converted into the Air Quality Index. And experts claim, the air quality is typically the worst in the winter months.
“Temperature inversions trap cold at the surface and cases problems because so many people heat with wood,” explains Susan Drake from the Oregon DEQ Air Quality Office.

Wood smoke is of particular concern since it’s a major cause of particle pollution. Wood doesn’t completely burn in any stove or fireplace and as a result a vaporous blend of gases, including benzene, are released into the air, and potentially inhaled by humans. Particles that are less than 10 micrometers in diameter can embed deep into the lungs and often even get trapped in the bloodstream. In turn, this can cause severe coughs and in some cases develop into a type of cancer if the exposure lasts for a long period of time.

The DEQ is reportedly going to approach the Oregon Legislature in the upcoming months with bills that will include funds to help people change out older uncertified woodstoves with more clean-burning, certified woodstoves. The bills are also going to be created to better define woodstove to the public and prevent the indoor burning of trash.

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According to recent news, a lawsuit has been filed by the children of a man who was supposedly wrongly exposed to benzene while at work. The suit has been filed two years after the man's death and his children say they chose to take action in hopes that others won't have to endure the painful loss they did when their father passed away.

The lawsuit, which was filed in Texas, names Texaco and Chevron as the defendants and accuses them of maliciously exposing their workers to benzene and other cancer-causing chemicals. Benzene is a known carcinogen that has been linked to various types of fatal cancers, including leukemia. 

Benzene Lawsuit Details

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Joseph Baker Jr., who was employed for both Texaco and Chevron during his professional career. His children are serving as the plaintiffs and hope to be given compensation for their father's pain and suffering and the financial and emotional toll it has taken on their own lives.

"During his employment (Baker) used and was exposed to toxic and carcinogenic benzene and benzene-containing products," states the suit. "As a result of such exposure Joseph Baker Jr. developed lymphoma from which he died a painful and terrible death on Oct. 14, 2006."

Works Still At Leukemia Risk

The suit also claims that the defendants knew about the potential harm the benzene exposure could have on their employees but failed to do anything about it. The plaintiffs are stating that employees are still being put at risk and could develop a benzene-related illness similar to what their father did.

"The defendant failed to timely and adequately warn workers of the dangers of said chemicals. The defendant failed to take the necessary engineering, safety, industrial hygiene and other precautions and provide adequate warning and training to ensure that the deceased was not exposed to said toxic and carcinogenic chemicals, including benzene," explains the suit.

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Recent findings have proved just how at risk we are of acquiring some form of cancer these days, particularly due to all of the pollutants and chemicals in our air, food and water. Research shows that a majority of cancers are inflicted by the environment. Chemicals like benzene, which is typically used as an additive in gasoline and is used in the production of synthetic rubbers and dyes, are slowly killing us.

Among the environmental risks that are putting us most at harm at indoor and outdoor pollution and the chemicals we are unknowingly exposed to at work, that infest our foods and are used in the manufacturing of our plastics. Although some of these chemicals are more toxic than others, like benzene. none of them are beneficial. In this increasingly fast paced world full of traffic, new technology and more supplies, we as humans can be exposed on a daily basis to things we inhale, ingest and absorb on our skin without our knowledge.

Harmful Toxins All Around Us

When we inhale harmful toxins like benzene and asbestos, the effects can be extremely damaging to our hearts, lungs and nervous systems. In the short term benzene exposure can cause sneezing and watery eyes, but in the long term, this known carcinogen can cause the development of fatal illnesses like leukemia and lung cancer.

Among the items that we are in contact with daily that could cause serious health problems are:

• Air Fresheners
• Aerosol Sprays
• Dry Cleaning Fluid Fumes
• Kerosene Heaters
• Floor Tiles
• Gasoline
• Soda
• Cigarette Smoke

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The effects of sitting in hours of traffic everyday can have a serious effect on your health, a fact that more and more San Diego residents are becoming familiar with. Each day thousands of people get into their cars and become a part of the mass exodus of people who cross through the two ports of entry between San Diego and Tijuana.

“The wait times at the San Ysidro Port of Entry can be a few minutes late at night and during the mid-day but can peak up to 120 minutes during the busy daily commutes in the early morning and evening hours,” explains Vince Bond, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Public Affairs Officer.

Health Complications Stem from Commute

Recently, more commuters have been diagnosed with have severe health problems and are voicing their frustration with the ever growing border wait times. According to doctors within this region, patients are not only coming to them due to lower back pains from sitting in the car for so long. They are also being admitted and even diagnosed with benzene related illnesses.

Benzene, which is a known carcinogen and has been linked to leukemia and lung cancer, is just one of the many pollutants and toxins that commuters are being exposed to on a daily basis. And although the effects of the longer border waits have been studied and analyzed throughout the years, there has been little research on what the commute can do to people physically.

According to Dr. PJE Quintana, a professor at the Graduate School of Public Health at San Diego State University, exposure to traffic-related pollution is being associated with asthma, heart disease and even adverse reproductive outcomes.

 “In-vehicle levels of particulate matter other pollutants, including carbon monoxide and benzene can be high in slow or stopped traffic, such as at the ports of entry” says Quintana.

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Alton Kemp, 81, is one of the many residents of Flemington, New Jersey who has received free water since he was a child from the city. He has kept all of the letters from his attorney in their original envelopes and is just one of the many residents that feels victimized by the polluted wells in the area.

For the past 28 years, New Hanover County’s city of Flemington has been giving out free water to residents after the EPA discovered their polluted wells in the 1970’s. The county recently announced that they were no longer going to provide residents with free water and locals like Kemp are taking legal action to fight back.

Benzene Found in Water

The water issues arose in Flemington in the 1970’s when the county granted Waste Industries permission to “stash their trash” in various landfill sites throughout the county. By 1977 residents began complaining that there water smelled and tasted bad and several reports of health complications, including cases of leukemia, arose throughout the city.

David Noonan, was brought into play as an attorney representing the people and he requested that city commissioners close the landfill, install a permanent water system and compensate residents for damage to their property and potentially their health.

When an investigation was conducted by the state and federal agencies, the EPA found a large number of toxic chemicals, including benzene, a known carcinogen, beneath the landfill and in various wells containing the water residents were drinking.

Free Water Promised to Residents

After attorneys representing the residents of Flemington, including Noonan, negotiated with commissioners, they were eventually promised that the county would give residents 12,000 gallons of free water every two months and that they would pay for additional water needs beyond that.

However, lawsuits ensued and many residents still chose to take legal action for the damage that had already been done, damage they believed could have been prevented. In 1985 the defendants and the EPA reached a preliminary settlement and the site was to be secured before a vegetative soil cover was supposed to go on top of the landfill. In 1989, a study conducted by Waste Industries found that there was an extreme threat to public health from the landfill site.

Although those living in Flemington and the surrounding areas were continuing to get free water, EPA officials suggested residents still be tested for leukemia and other benzene related illnesses. Almost simultaneous this warning, Cape Fear Public Utility Authority took over the county’s utility system and refused to continue giving residents water for free.

Residents Hold County to Agreement

Kemp, who had been receiving free, clean water from the county since he was seven, says his distrust in the county provoked him to keep all the legal files, and now he’s glad he has.

Kemp and many of his Flemington neighbors have received free water for over three decades, all the result of an agreement that the county commissioners made with residents after benzene and other pollutants infected their private wells.

This past July, Kemp and many others got a letter informing from the county informing them that they would start receiving water bills on a regular basis. For residents in Flemington, a regular water bill, for water that could or could not be still polluted, financially and physically straining. They are insisting that the county took their clean water and are now putting them at risk for benzene exposure, something the county, not the residents, should have to pay for.

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 Recent reports are accusing Mac Pros of producing fumes containing toxic chemicals like the carcinogen, benzene. The reports stem from a posting left this past week on a French site catered towards Mac enthusiasts, MacBidouille.

The posting cites testing conducted at a laboratory which used multiple censors on the computers over an eight day period. The testing monitored the air emitted from the computer that was being circulated by a cooling fan. Using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, the posting claims to have found seven organic contaminants being released in the vapors from the computers.

The posting was commissioned by an anonymous user who says he is a researcher at France’s National Center for Scientific Research and experienced an irritation of the eyes, nose and larynx after just ten days of exposure to his Mac Pro.

Substances Found

Among the substances supposedly being emitted from the Mac Pros, aside from benzene, were propanal, isobenzofuranione and acetic acid. A majority of these chemicals are merely considered irritants. However, benzene has been found to elevate cancers like MDS in people who are exposed for a long duration of time.

Many Mac Pro owners from around the world have reportedly filed complaints about strong odors being released from their computers. In some cases, consumers have even reported having headaches and experiencing nausea.

Apple has not addressed the posting or the complaints being filed by customers who recently bought the computer. However, some users claim that after posting complaints on support forums AppleCare technicians have replaced certain components of the computer, which has seemed to take care of some of the problems. 

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JCI Jones Chemicals Inc. is continuing their ongoing investigation of the soil, groundwater and soil gas in Los Angeles. According to reports, chlorinated solvents and benzene were found near the supply plant and the company is now working with the U.S Environmental Protection Agency to protect the environment and local residents that could potentially be affected.

Jones is still in operation and is located next to what was formerly the Montrose Chemical dichlorodiphenyl-trichloroethane ( DDT ) manufacturing plant.  A spokesman person for the company says the Montrose Corporation of California is working on studies pertaining to the chemical problems at the site. They are also working to create a cleanup plan to prevent employees and locals from suffering the side effects of benzene exposure.

State Implements Cleanup Agreement

Under the new cleanup agreement proposed by the state, Jones will be supplementing the Montrose work by further investigating the contamination at the site, which is part of the Montrose Chemical Superfund Site. The site was added as a Superfund Site in 1989 by the EPA.

“We’re ordering JCI Jones Chemicals to take the steps needed to prevent hazardous chemicals from spreading into drinking water wells or entering into the air and nearby buildings,” explains Mike Montgomery, the Assistant Director for Superfund, Region 9, EPA. “This work gives a boost to our continuing efforts to identify and address all of the contamination.”

Previous sampling of the groundwater and soil at the site confirmed that the JCI Jones Chemicals plant is contaminated with benzene and other carcinogenic chemicals. This obviously causes concern among health officials and workers at the plant since exposure to benzene has been linked to various forms of cancer, including leukemia and MDS.

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 The investigation continues outside of Parachute, Colorado on drinking water thought to be contaminated with benzene. Two springs outside of a cabin are the focus of the investigation and citations against four oil and gas companies have already been issued.

The citations claim the companies, along with a fifth which was added this week, OXY USA, failed to notify authorities about the benzene contaminating the springs. According to Debbie Baldwin, the environmental manager for the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, OXY failed to report the fact that oil and gas were leaking into a drain above the springs.

Residents at Risk of Leukemia

One resident, Ned Prather, has already come forward claiming he developed health complications because of the benzene contamination. Researchers have found that benzene is linked with life-threatening cancers such as leukemia. City officials expect more locals living near the springs to come forward. The benzene contaminated water is reported to have been leaking into a pond on Prather’s property.

More testing is reportedly being conducted to determine just how much benzene has been released into the water and for how long. In the meantime, health officials are encouraging those living in the area to seek medical attention if they are experiencing any health abnormalities.

Background on Benzene

Benzene is a chemical that is typically found in synthetic rubbers, dyes and gasoline. Exposure, through ingestion or inhalation, of the chemical can cause severe health problems, especially to those who are exposed for a long duration of time.

The Environmental Protection Agency, with the help of other agencies, is committed to ensuring that harmful substances such as benzene are not released into the environment; though in certain cases, such as the problems in Parachute, they were not made aware of benzene emissions, as is legally required. 

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According to recent reports, benzene, which has been linked to myelodysplastic syndromes, and other toxic chemicals were recently found near two homes near Kalamazoo, Michigan. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) discovered the materials, which were located in 500 barrels in a barn.

A spokesman for the EPA claims three of the barrels contained radioactive substances and all of the chemicals found pose an extreme threat to those living in the area. Not only are the chemicals that were found explosive, but they also could cause serious health problems to local residents.
Although there have been no signs of groundwater contamination in the area, the agency is warning those living in the area to take extra caution.

Research has found that exposure to benzene can cause various forms of leukemia, including myelodysplastic syndromes, once known as “preleukemia.” Benzene is typically used in the production of synthetic rubbers and dyes. However, it can also be found in various soda products and gasoline, two things people can generally expose themselves to on a daily basis.

Due to the nature of the problem in Kalamazoo, health officials are asking residents to immediately seek medical attention if they are feeling symptoms associated with benzene exposure. These symptoms include:

• Dizziness
• Pale skin
• Excessive bruising or bleeding
• Extreme fatigue

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In a recent report from The Boston Globe residents living in Acton and Concord, Massachusetts

question whether or not their health is being jeopardized. Cancer rates continue to rise in the communities, which border one another and once served as the home to a W.R. Grace & Co. manufacturing site, and many are concerned that the groundwater is to blame.

Contaminants such as benzene were first found to be leaking into the groundwater of Acton in 1978. W.R. Grace, which produced concrete, latex products and plastic battery separators, amongst other things, stopped its on-site waste dischargers two years after the contamination was discovered. In 1983, the property was declared a Superfund site and a benzene cleanup began. However, by this time, it seems the damage had already been done.

Cancer Rates High

Cases of leukemia, lung cancer, and bladder and brain cancer have all risen in the past couple of decades in the area. Researchers linked these cases of cancer to the water contamination and benzene problems in the area; however, after a recent government report dismissed these allegations, residents remain concerned.

The Department of Public Health claimed there was no link found between the contaminated water in the community and the high rates of cancer. However, various forms of leukemia and other fatal cancers have been linked to benzene exposure in recent years and residents question how the government can ignore this fact.

The communities are also questioning why the government is dismissing a link between W.R. Grace and local health complications but still requiring the water districts to monitor the wells. Government officials are also recommending residents seek medical attention if they feel they have been put at risk. If there is no risk, then why the recommendations and continued monitoring? Both questions that those living and working in Acton and Concord are determined to get answered.
 

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