Benzene is a highly carcinogenic chemical that is present in both natural sources and in many manmade substances and processes.

Natural sources of benzene include such things as forest fires and volcanic eruptions, but it is also a component of such manmade sources as:
· Cigarette smoke
· Industrial solvents
· Manufacturing processes
· Chemical synthesis
· Gasoline (benzene is used as an additive)

Benzene is ingested either by inhalation or by skin contact.

How are people exposed to benzene?
According to the American Cancer Society, people are exposed to benzene in three discrete ways:
· Environmental exposure. This would include exposure to natural sources of benzene, such as volcanic eruptions and forest fires, as well as manmade sources including cigarette smoke, fuel exhaust, water and air pollution, and other ambient sources.
· Workplace exposure. Most serious cases of long-term benzene poisoning are a result of workplace exposure. This primarily affects workers in manufacturing and chemical industries. The last year that OSHA measured workplace benzene exposure was 1987, when it was estimated that approximately 237,000 American workers may have been exposed.
· Household exposure. Benzene is also a common additive in many widely used household products, including cleaning solutions, paint strippers, glue, art supplies, and cigarettes.

How can I tell if benzene caused my cancer?
While there is no one way to definitively conclude that benzene is responsible for an individual cancer diagnosis , there are ways to establish that it was a likely source.

Some types of evidence that benzene was responsible include:
· Type of cancer—benzene tends to contribute to certain types of cancer more than others
· Blood and urine tests to establish the levels of benzene currently in the system
· Work history, including the amount and duration of benzene exposure
· Other potential cancer risks, to eliminate other common causes of the cancer

What are my options?

If you believe that you or a loved one in Ohio may have developed cancer as a result of benzene exposure, particularly in the workplace, it is important that you consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.