Benzene is a highly flammable chemical that has a sweet odor. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that benzene is one of the top 20 chemicals used in the United States. Exposure to inhaled benzene may occur through tobacco smoke, gas emissions, motor vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions. Benzene may also be inhaled from glue, paint, detergents and some household cleansers. Plastics, nylons, resins and synthetic fibers contain benzene. It is also used to make some lubricants, drugs, pesticides and dyes.
Acute Health Effects
The Environmental Protection Agency reports that even short-term exposure to benzene may cause symptoms. Inhaling benzene can cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, impaired coordination, confusion and loss of consciousness. Ingesting benzene can cause symptoms of nausea and vomiting, dizziness and convulsions. Skin exposed to benzene may become reddened and blistered. Benzene vapor can also cause eye irritation. Exposure to benzene while drinking alcohol can increase the toxic effects of benzene.
Long-Term Health Effects
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the long-term effects of benzene are mostly seen in the blood. Benzene can damage bone marrow and cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells, causing anemia. Excessive bleeding and damage to the immune system has also been observed, as benzene damages the body's ability to make healthy white blood cells, the cells that aid the body in fighting off infection. Benzene is also known to cause damage to the shape and number of human chromosomes. Studies suggest that benzene may impair fertility in women, but more research is needed for confirmation.
Cancer Risk
The Environmental Protection Agency has classed benzene as a Group A carcinogen. This means that benzene has been proven to cause cancer in humans. Benzene exposure has been linked to the development of leukemia, lymphoma, lung and bladder cancers.
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