Acute Myeloid Leukemia
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Acute myeloid leukemia begins in the cells that typically develop into different types of blood cells, however most cases arise in the cells that would naturally become white blood cells. This type of cancer starts in the bone marrow and gradually moves on to other parts of the body. White blood cells, just like all other types of blood cells, are very important in the protection and maintenance of the human body. Myeloid leukemia occurs when the white blood cells are infected which turns them into cancerous cells.
Symptoms
Symptoms of AML typically include fatigue, shortness of breath, bruises that form easily, bleeding with little to no trauma, an increased risk of infection, and continuous illness. Additionally, all forms of leukemia affect the immune system. When our immune systems are not functioning properly,we can feel very tired and lethargic, weak, or simply sick. All three of these are very distinct symptoms of acute myeloid leukemia, and for that reason, it is not uncommon for patients to suffer from extreme lethargy, physical weakness, and frequent bouts of nausea and vomiting.
Causes
Chemical exposure is just one cause of AML. The chemical benzene is colorless, sweet smelling, and found in many everyday products, such as plastics, rubbers, dyes, detergents, pesticides. It is among the top 20 chemicals in production in the United States. Occupations with high levels of exposure include any job that requires painting, printing, gasoline, leather, rubber, transportation, or hazardous waste. General exposure to benzene can occur from smoking, paints, household solvents, pens, tapes, food, automobiles, storage sites, and many more. Low levels of benzene have been found in outdoor air near gas stations, from tobacco smoke, and industrial emissions. Indoor air may be contaminated from glue, paint, furniture wax, and detergents. Well water may be poisoned with benzene from nearby leaking storage tanks or hazardous waste sites. Work-related benzene exposure can occur when working with any amount of benzene, the distribution of gasoline, or boiling solvents of any kind. The risks are in the air, water, and products that we use every day. However, that does not mean that you or anyone you know should suffer from a life-threatening disease because of what is in our environment.
The Connection
Acute Myeloid Leukemia has been directly linked to chronic exposure to high levels of benzene. The chemical itself, and all its derivatives, are considered to be a carcinogen. Therefore, it is a toxic substance that can induce cancer within the human body. Limiting your inhalation of benzene can increase your chances of staying healthy. However, if you have already been highly exposed, then contact a lawyer to learn about your rights.
The Next Step
If you and your family have just received the difficult news of an AML diagnosis and benzene is the cause of your sickness, action must be taken. Acute myeloid leukemia is a serious illness with a long list of symptoms and side effects, and this is not the time for your family to endure prolonged stress. If your illness is due to work-related or environmental exposure to benzene, contact an attorney now to find out more about the monetary damages you may be entitled to. Your medical bills shouldn\'t have to come out of your pocket. Instead, the responsible parties should be held accountable. Find an attorney in your area with a history of trying benzene and leukemia lawsuits.
