BENZENE

Benzene, a known carcinogen has been used as a solvent and chemical for various industrial, commercial and consumer applications. Today, benzene is used in many consumer products, including paints, solvents, degreasers, pesticides, adhesives, dry cleaning fluid, lubricants, and chemicals used in the rubber industry. Exposure to Benzene can result in various ailments, including chronic myelogenous leukemia (AML), multiple myelogenous aplastic anemia (a precursor to AML).

According to the National Cancer institute, more than 12,000 cases of AML are diagnosed every year and many workers and consumers are exposed to Benzene daily. Notably, these exposures could be minimized and prevented by substituting less toxic ingredients for Benzene and through the use of stronger warnings of the need to use proper precautions.