Benzene is one of the most widely produced chemicals in the United States. It is used to make other chemicals involved in producing plastics, resins, nylon, synthetic fibers, rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. Benzene is also a known human carcinogen, as determined by the Department of Health and Human Services. In fact, there are reports of benzene's carcinogenicity as far back as the 1920's. Epidemiological studies have also confirmed that benzene may cause leukemia, non-hodgkin's lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

The three main types of exposure to benzene are environmental, consumer product, and occupational. The chemical can be either inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Most cases of benzene related injuries occur in the workplace. Side effects of benzene exposure can show up as soon as nine months after the exposure. However, the latency period known with some of the side effects can cause the injury to show up twenty years after the exposure. If you have been exposed to benzene, you should contact your physician immediately.

If you have been injured by benzene exposure, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits in addition to a personal injury claim. Contact a benzene attorney as soon as possible to determine your legal rights.