All types of leukemia may qualify for an ethylene oxide exposure claim
Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a toxic chemical that has been used for sterilization and pesticides. The most common way a person is exposed to EtO is through inhalation, especially when an individual works in or lives near a facility that uses EtO.
EtO is identified as a Group 1 carcinogen by several organizations, including the EPA, IARC, ATSDR, and CDC. A Group 1 carcinogen classification means that EtO is known to cause cancer in humans.
Numerous studies in recent years show that EtO does indeed damage cells. The harm it causes to the body may lead to cancers like leukemia. Symptoms of leukemia may include:
- Fever and night sweats
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Enlargement of spleen or liver
- Tendency to easily bruise or bleed, including nose bleeds
The Abramson Cancer Center of Penn Medicine lists four main leukemia types, which are as follows:
- Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)
- Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
- Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)
