The EPA and IARC have classified ethylene oxide as a human carcinogen
Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a colorless, sweet-smelling toxic gas used by various industries in the United States. Companies use EtO in production and sterilization processes. While this man-made chemical may be useful, irresponsible facilities lack the necessary safety protocols to prevent or eliminate their EtO emissions.
The people directly affected by these emissions are the EtO facility employees and residents who live near EtO-using facilities. Several organizations in the U.S., like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), agree that EtO is a group 1 human carcinogen. The following are the cancer types associated with EtO exposure:
- All types of leukemia
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Multiple myeloma
- Liver cancer
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer (both male and female)
Apart from cancers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also states that EtO may negatively affect and damage the nerves, liver, kidneys, and reproductive system of a person. This harmful chemical may also irritate the skin, nose, throat, and lungs.
Speak to a toxic exposure attorney at ELG Law
If you suspect that your exposure to ethylene oxide causes health conditions or if you lost a family member to EtO-related cancer, it’s best to consult a trusted lawyer to see if you qualify for an ethylene oxide claim. You can find experienced toxic exposure lawyers at ELG Law. Contact our law firm today so we can assess your case and guide you through the filing process for an ethylene oxide exposure claim.