Published by Even though benzene is among the most frequently utilized chemicals in the United States currently, it has been associated with causing acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a deadly cancer originating in the blood-producing cells of the bone marrow.Free Confidential Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one was injured by the side effects of benzene exposure, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit and our lawyers can help.
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What is Benzene Used For?
Benzene is one of the most widely used chemicals in the U.S. today. It is used to manufacture rubber, plastics, synthetic fibers, lubricants, drugs, dyes, detergents, and pesticides. The chemical is also found in many fuels and solvents and is usually colorless and light yellow in appearance.
Related Article: Benzene Exposure Lawsuit Update
How Can Benzene Cause Cancer?
The major effect of long-term benzene exposure is on the blood. Benzene causes harmful effects on the bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) [1] classifies benzene as a carcinogen (cancer-causing substance) based on evidence that it causes acute myeloid leukemia (AML) [2].
Acute Myeloid Leukemia Symptoms
AML is a type of blood cancer that typically begins in cells that would turn into white blood cells. However, the disease can start in other types of blood-forming cells. Signs and symptoms of acute myeloid leukemia include:
- Tiredness
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Night sweats
AML Prognosis and Survival Rate
In patients under the age of 60, approximately 70% to 80% will go into remission after the first round of chemotherapy. Remission means a person doesn’t have symptoms of the disease and their blood cell counts are in a normal range. The 5-year overall survival rate for acute myeloid leukemia is 26%.
How Do I Know if Benzene Exposure Caused My Injury?
If you have been diagnosed with AML and feel that benzene exposure may be the cause, you should contact our lawyers for a free case evaluation. As part of the evaluation process, we will explore the evidence to determine whether benzene may have caused your cancer. We then provide your history and medical records to an expert in this area. This expert will study your case to determine whether benzene was a factor in the development of your injury.
FAQs
What evidence is needed to support a benzene exposure lawsuit?
Evidence may include medical records showing your diagnosis, proof of benzene exposure (such as employment records or environmental reports), and expert testimony linking benzene to your health issues. Comprehensive documentation is essential for a strong case.
Can I file a lawsuit if I have been exposed to benzene and developed health problems in St. Louis?
Yes, individuals who have been exposed to benzene and developed health problems can file lawsuits. Documenting your exposure and health issues is crucial for a strong case.
What types of compensation can I receive from a benzene exposure lawsuit?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. Each case is unique, and the specific damages awarded depend on individual circumstances.
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See all related toxic tort lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.
Do I Have a Benzene Lawsuit?
The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in benzene exposure lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation in St. Louis, Missouri, as well as across the U.S., and are currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.
Free Case Evaluation: Again, if you were injured by the side effects of benzene toxicity, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.