Workers across the nation exposed to benzene and other toxins at the workplace may be an increased risk of developing aplastic anemia, a condition that occurs when the body stops producing enough new blood cells.
Considered a relatively rare and serious condition, aplastic anemia affects patients with severe fatigue and at risk of serious infections and uncontrollable bleeding. The condition can develop slowly and may worsen over time, and may require blood transfusions, stem cell transplant, or a bone marrow transplant. Industries in which workers are exposed to Benzene include:
Benzene Blood Disorders
Aplastic anemia can be mistaken for myelodysplastic syndrome, a related condition in which blood cells are deformed and underdeveloped. Patients may also have a disorder known as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and causes red blood cells to break down too soon.
Research by the National Cancer Institute has indicated that benzene exposure can cause a decrease in the production of healthy blood cells which may result in blood disease or cancer. Aplastic anemia can present with signs and symptoms that include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heart rate
- Frequent or complicated infections
- Unexplained bruising
- Prolonged bleeding
- Skin rash
- Dizziness
- Headaches
Aplastic Anemia Linked to Benzene
In 2006, the American Society of Hematology published a study on industrial benzene use and the association with blood disorders including macrocytic anemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndrome and leukemia (AML). The study focused on workers at one diamond factory in India. Benzene was widely used in the factory and the workers were without any protective safety equipment.
Out of 37 workers working eight hour shifts in the closed room, eleven developed blood dyscrasia and aplastic anemia. One patient died during treatment. Workers in the U.S. have met the same fate in unsafe work environments. Negligent employers can be held responsible for toxic exposure.
Joe Lyon is an experienced Cincinnati Catastrophic Injury Lawyer and Ohio Toxic Tort Attorney investigating workplace exposure and filing lawsuits for injured plaintiffs nationwide.
Aplastic Anemia Lawsuits
Aplastic anemia damages the bone marrow, slowing the production of new blood cells, and is a critical condition that requires prompt treatment.
Following diagnosis, patients should contact medical specialists and a legal expert to consider workplace injury lawsuits in order to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. Aplastic anemia can be caused by the following:
- High-dose radiation or chemotherapy
- Exposure to toxic chemicals—benzene, pesticides and insecticides
- Prescription drug use—those used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and some antibiotics
- Autoimmune disorders
- Viral Infection
