Why Is Benzene Bad?

Benzene is a chemical that is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor. When left at room temperature, it can evaporate into the air very quickly, as well as slightly dissolve into water. Produced by both natural and artificial processes, it is a natural component of crude oil, which is where most of the benzene produced comes from today. Other natural sources of benzene include but are not limited to gas emissions caused by volcanoes and forest fires. Benzene is primarily used as a solvent in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Exposure to this substance can cause severe neurological symptoms and can create issues in the bone marrow, which in turn can cause anemia, excessive bleeding, and other damages to the immune system. Benzene has also been connected with an increased risk of developing lymphatic and hematopoietic cancers, acute myelogenous leukemia, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

While benzene has been found most commonly in construction or hazardous waste sites, in recent years the lab Valisure released their findings of the highly carcinogenic chemical to be in hundreds of popular personal care items around the United States, prompting several big brands to recall dozens of products voluntarily. Below is a list of the most commonly found products that contain benzene, as well as those products found by Valisure.

• Antiperspirant
• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreens
• Dry shampoo
• Detergents
• Tobacco smoke
• Inks
• Adhesives and coatings
• Rubbers
• Paints
• Paint, lacquer, and varnish removers
• Industrial solvents
• Gasoline and other fuels
• Glues
• Furniture wax
• Thinners
• Industrial cleaning and degreasing formulations

If you believe you or someone you know has used any of the products listed above or has been exposed to benzene, immediately contact a medical professional to learn more about your best course of action, then contact an attorney to review your case.

You deserve to know the facts about the danger you and your loved ones are in when exposed to benzene. Exposure to benzene can cause severe illnesses in people who breathe in, consume foods or beverages, or use products with high benzene levels. Below are the following symptoms that may develop anywhere from minutes to several hours after exposure:

• Tremors
• Drowsiness
• Convulsions
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Pale or red-dotted skin
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite
• Unconsciousness
• Vomiting
• Heart palpitations

According to the National Cancer Institute, there is no safe level of exposure to benzene. Along with the symptoms listed above, direct benzene exposure to the skin, eyes, or lungs can lead to severe tissue injuries or irritations. In select cases, short-term exposure can lead to death.

After exposure to benzene, your life may never be the same. At Morgan & Morgan, our team's top priority is ensuring you and your family get the justice you deserve when major corporations drop the ball on your safety. For over 35 years, our law firm has been fighting back for victims just like you to help get them back on their feet, and we want to help you, too. Don't wait to get the help you need from an attorney. If you believe you or a loved one has been exposed to benzene, we may be able to help you. 

For more information, we urge you to fill out our free, no-obligation case evaluation form today, and one of our attorneys will be in touch. See why millions trust Morgan & Morgan for their injury case.