Connect the dots: Breast cancer and EtO exposure at work and home

EtO is an odorless, cancer-causing gas that serves as the primary ingredient in the manufacturing of ethylene glycol and other chemicals used as cleaning agents. A person may be exposed to EtO either through their work (factory and other industrial workers tasked with handling the chemical), or their surroundings (if they live within proximity of EtO-using establishments), or both.

The link between EtO exposure and breast cancer risks

Because of its genotoxic and alkylating properties, EtO can cause damage and mutation of the DNA of breast epithelial cells. Furthermore, long-term exposure, either through the workplace or in the environment, increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

In 2023, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published a scientific paper that links living in areas closer to production facilities with higher environmental emissions of EtO to higher risks of developing ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a type of non-invasive breast cancer. Researchers pointed out, in particular, that those living within roughly 1.9 miles had the highest estimated exposure to EtO and that they had a 60% increased risk of DCIS.

Additionally, industrial employees, especially those routinely exposed to EtO, are also among the most vulnerable to breast cancer. Recently, a 2025 study from the Environmental Health Perspectives showed that workers employed for at least 1 year in facilities producing and using EtO had elevated risks of breast cancer deaths.

Ethylene oxide exposure: Compensation options

Many individuals have been diagnosed with breast cancer as a result of prolonged exposure to ethylene oxide either at their workplace or in their surroundings. That's why some seek legal support to obtain financial help with their treatment and recovery journey. Those suffering from breast cancer linked to constant EtO exposure may be entitled to compensation that can cover the following:

• Medical expenses, including surgeries, treatment, and other necessary healthcare services
• Loss of wages, present and future
• Damages for emotional suffering and pain
• Wrongful death

File your EtO exposure claims with help from ELG Law

Filing toxic exposure claims can be an exhausting and overwhelming ordeal. If you or a loved one developed breast cancer as a result of prolonged EtO exposure, we're here to help you. Here at ELG Law, our skilled and experienced team of experts is ready to provide the legal support you need. We can evaluate your case at no cost. All you have to do is share your medical, residential, or employment records, and we will evaluate your eligibility for free.