By Michael Bartlett on February 09th, 2026 in Ethylene Oxide
Cancer linked to EtO exposure are not limited to adults. While it is usually seen as something older people get, mostly due to genetics and unhealthy lifestyle, recently studies have found something alarming: more young adults are being diagnosed with various types of cancers that used to be rare under age 50, for reasons that are not fully understood.
Research from the NIH, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), and other groups is pointing out that people born after 1950 appear to have higher rates of certain cancer types compared with past generations at the same age.
Studies also show that exposure to toxic chemicals during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood can increase cancer risk later in life. While there’s no solid proof yet that ethylene oxide causes these early-onset cancers, environmental health studies suggest that exposures to these chemicals could be a factor, especially for cancers already linked to EtO.
Both the U.S. EPA and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) identify ethylene oxide as a human carcinogen, associated with various types of cancer, including:
Manufacturers use EtO in producing fumigants, pesticides, and antifreeze. After multiple studies have shown that prolonged exposure to this chemical can cause health problems in humans, restrictions have been implemented.
A 2023 study found that living in proximity to EtO emissions was linked to a higher risk of developing early-stage breast cancer, even among residents without workplace exposure. This is one of the first studies that outlined a link between residential ethylene oxide exposure and cancer risk.
With adolescent and young adult patients diagnosed with cancer linked to EtO exposure, a detailed environmental history and thorough medical monitoring are needed, similar to occupational exposure checks.
Because environmental diseases often mimic common illnesses, documenting environmental exposure helps in receiving an accurate diagnosis. Taking a targeted history is essential:
Environmental chemical exposure is just one factor when it comes to cancer in young adults. Other factors include diet, lifestyle, and genetics. Even though studies do not link EtO as a direct cause to early-onset cancer, it gives rise to deeper concern when a young person living near an EtO-emitting facility develops cancer. Young adults struggling with severe health conditions as a consequence of prolonged EtO exposure can file for toxic exposure claims.
However, for a successful claim, they must meet certain criteria, such as the following:
Young adults diagnosed with severe diseases linked to EtO exposure may be entitled to financial compensation, including:
We understand how overwhelming the legal process can be. We are here to take care of the EtO claim on your behalf so you can focus on your health and well-being. Based on the documents and details you provide, our EtO attorneys will build and file your claim if found eligible. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to contact us today for a free consultation.