Can Benzene Get Into Your Bloodstream Through Your Skin?
Yes, one of the quickest routes that benzene can enter your body, and get into your blood, is through your skin. This type of contact is called dermal exposure. Several factors affect how much benzene your skin absorbs. Factors include the condition of your skin when the benzene gets on the skin, how much benzene was in the product, and how long the benzene-containing product is on your skin.
Which Cancers Are Caused By Benzene?
Benzene is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, a list that includes asbestos and plutonium. Researchers have linked benzene exposure to blood and bone cancers for decades. Studies have examined prolonged benzene exposure in connection with the following diseases:
- Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL)
- Multiple Myeloma (MM)
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
- Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)
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Who Is Most At Risk For Dermal Exposures?
Anyone who worked with solvents, degreasers, and other petroleum-based products prior to 1980 is most at risk. The mechanics we represent tell us that they rarely wore gloves. The same thing goes for pressmen, painters, and industrial tradesmen. There were very few protections against dermal exposures.
The longer benzene is in contact with skin, the worse the dermal exposures. It isn’t practical for a mechanic or pressman to stop their work and wash up every time something gets sprayed or splashed onto their skin. As a result, workers could absorb benzene through their skin throughout the workday. Cuts and cracked skin provided an easier route for benzene to enter the body. One study looked at mechanics who used gasoline to clean parts. Researchers estimated that these mechanics absorbed 92% of the benzene entering their bodies through their skin. In fact, many workers did not know about the dangers of benzene and washed their hands with solvents and fuels.
A Leukemia Law Firm Working For You
Blood cancer cases are complex undertakings. We work with experts to connect your cancer with your benzene exposures. Filing deadlines may limit the time to bring a benzene claim. If you or a loved one had benzene exposure and later developed myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia, or another blood or bone cancer, call 1-800-BENZENE and speak with a lawyer today.
