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Regulation of benzeneThe results of a 1995 study finding higher than expected levels of benzene in Anchorage, Alaska homes has led to a grant for further research. The University of Washington and the Municipal Department of Health and Human Services have accepted the grant for a study the indoor air in Anchorage homes with attached garages. The study will involve air samples from 50 homes, in an effort to understand the way that air moves from attached garages into the living areas of houses. The benzene-cancer connectionLeukemia is cancer that originates in the bone marrow, the soft, spongy inner portion of certain bones, and in which the malignant cells are white blood cells (leukocytes). Acute myelogenous leukemia is a malignancy that arises in either granulocytes or monocytes which are white blood cells that battle infectious agents throughout the body. Although the exact cause of AML is unknown, exposure to benzene and cigarettes smoking are linked to the disease. AML occurs in all ages but more often in older adults. With more than 10,000 new luekemia cases diagnosed annually, AML is the most common type of acute leukemia in adults. The Effects of exposure to benzeneThe symptoms of benzene exposure can differ, and the time that it takes for these symptoms to develop also varies. Some reactions to benzene can be immediate, such as central nervous system toxicity. However, other symptoms have a long latency period and may not show for several decades following exposure. Exposure to benzene has resulted in non-Hodgkin lymphoma, aplastic anaemia and various types of leukaemia. The benzene-cancer connectionBenzene is linked with an increased risk of leukaemia, and some of the cancers associated with this chemical include acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), hairy cell leukemia (HCL), non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), Hodgkin's disease, multiple myeloma, and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Regulation of benzeneThe Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registrycan tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances such as benzene. You can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, call 1-888-422-8737. Risks of exposure to benzeneFemales that have been occupationally exposed to this chemical have been found to suffer a decrease in the size of the ovaries as well as menstrual problems. Some studies, although not yet conclusive, have also suggested that the high level exposure to the chemical could also affect fertility in women. In animal tests, pregnant animals that were exposed to benzene via inhalation sustained fetus damage including low birth weight, bone marrow problems, and problems with bone formation. Regulation of benzeneTwenty-six states have their own Occupational Safety and Health Administration or "OSHA" programs. These OSHA-approved State Plan programs set standards which are "at least as effective as" Federal OSHA standards for many safety issues including handling and exposure to dangerous chemicals such as benzene. State plans provide assistance and extend their authority to most private sector and all public sector ( state and local government ) employers and employees in those States, including first and second responders. Visit State Occupational Safety and Health Plans to verify your state's status and search for standards that may apply to you. Claiming damages for exposure to benzeneThose suffering from ill health through occupational exposure to benzene may be entitled to compensation for injuries sustained, and the same goes for the families of those that may already have passed away through the ill effects of benzene exposure. Anyone that works with this chemical is advised to seek medical assistance should any symptoms of benzene arise, and should also seek legal assistance. Filing a benzene lawsuitAn experienced and qualified benzene lawyer can help you to put together a solid lawsuit if you have been affected by this chemical. In the case of a person that has passed away through illness caused by exposure, a lawyer can help the family to put together a sound wrongful death lawsuit. As well as legal assistance in filing a benzene lawsuit, experienced lawyers within this field will also be able to help put you in touch with support groups and other organizations. Regulation of benzeneIf you work at a facilty that handles benzene or other toxic chemicals, make sure your employer is following the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). The HCS is a standard developed by the US Department of Labor, Office of Safety and Health Administration and is based on a simple concept--that employees have both a need and a right to know the hazards and identities of the chemicals they are exposed to when working. They also need to know what protective measures are available to prevent adverse effects from occurring. The HCS is designed to provide employees with the information they need when working with toxic or otherwise hazardous substances.
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