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"Study Examines Benzene Exposure in Alaskan Homes" November 24, 2008 A professor of environmental health at the University of Alaska, Anchorage is currently conducting a study to evaluate the levels of benzene that Alaskans are exposed to within their homes. Dr. Mary Ellen Gordian, the lead researcher, has recently completed the initial phase of this benzene study. In this first phase, Dr. Gordian enlisted 600 families throughout the Anchorage area to mail a benzene-absorbing canister to researchers after having it in their homes for a bit over a week. Additionally, participating families were asked to fill out and mail in a health survey that asked them about the types of medical problems that each family member had or is susceptible to developing. What is Benzene? Derived from crude petroleum, benzene is a sweet smelling, colorless liquid that is known to be carcinogenic. Although benzene is a key ingredient in paints, plastics, degreasers and other synthetic substances, when inhaled or ingested, this toxin can cause immediate health complications, including: • disorientation and dizziness Over longer periods of time, benzene exposure is far more toxic, as it causes irreversible, potentially fatal health problems, including: • blood disorders Because benzene readily dissolves in both air and water, benzene levels (and the likelihood of harmful benzene exposure) are particularly high around oil refineries. Findings in this Study's First Phase In mid-November 2008, Dr. Gordian and fellow researchers announced their findings following the culmination of the first phase of their benzene study. After thorough analysis of the canisters and surveys, researchers found that benzene levels in the area are particularly high – nearly half of the canisters contained over 3 parts per billion (ppb) of benzene. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) currently stipulate that 3 ppb benzene is the absolute maximum level of acceptable benzene in a given area. Reasons for Elevated Benzene Levels in Alaska Alaskans are especially prone to having excessive levels of benzene within their homes for a few reasons: • Gas refineries are commonplace throughout Alaska. • While gas sold in other states typically contains about 1 percent benzene, gas sold in Alaska usually contains between 3 and 5 percent benzene (This is due to the fact that higher levels of benzene within Alaskan gas are needed to start cars in these colder climates). • Homes in Alaska tend to have attached garages and forced-air furnaces, increasing the likelihood that benzene from cars' exhaust will infiltrate homes. Second Phase of Benzene Study In the second phase of this benzene study, Dr. Gordian and fellow researchers are asking participating families to mail in benzene-absorbing canisters and associated surveys once a month for a year. Through this follow-up effort, researchers hope to evaluate the effect that climate changes have on benzene levels within Alaskan homes. (Source: Seawolf Weekly) Have you or a loved one been harmed by benzene exposure? If so, contact us today to meet with an experienced benzene lawyer who can help you pursue your legal claim and win your highly deserved compensation. Click here for more Benzene News...
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