By Treven Pyles
Posted on October 31st, 2025
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood-forming tissue wherein white blood cells, or other blood cells, grow abnormally, multiply out of control, and fail to perform their normal functions. In the context of chemical exposure to EtO, the toxic gas's ability to cause genetic mutations and chromosomal breaks may lead to blood cancers.
Ethylene oxide is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a known human carcinogen. Moreover, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has linked EtO exposure to cancers affecting the lymphatic and hematopoietic systems, such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma and various forms of leukemia.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) states that long-term exposure even to small EtO concentrations is associated with lymphohematopoietic cancers, including lymphocytic leukemia. Nevertheless, the message derived from all scientific studies is clear. For workers or residents living in the vicinity of EtO plants or facilities, there is a real risk of leukemia, particularly over a prolonged period of exposure.
EtO workers and nearby residents are at high risk of developing leukemia
Leukemia is typically diagnosed through a combination of blood tests and bone marrow examinations. Doctors first look for symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained bruising, or frequent infections, then perform a complete blood count (CBC) to check the levels and appearance of blood cells. When abnormal or immature white blood cells, known as blasts, appear in the bloodstream, they undergo further testing. The next tests involve collecting samples from the hip bones to confirm the presence of leukemia cells and determine the specific type and stage of the disease. Additional tests, such as flow cytometry, cytogenetic analysis, and molecular testing, help identify genetic mutations or chromosomal changes that inform treatment decisions.
If you have worked at or lived near a facility that uses or emits ethylene oxide - particularly in sterilization, chemical manufacture, or medical device production - it is critical to inform your physician of this history. This way, the healthcare provider will be able to monitor early signs and perform periodic blood-test screenings to detect the illness in its early stages.
Leukemia linked to EtO isn't inevitable, but unseen, and unchecked exposure makes it more likely. By staying informed, documenting exposure, and demanding strong protections from your employer, you can tilt the outcome in your favor.
ELG Law can help with your EtO leukemia claim
If you worked in a plant or facility that uses EtO, or if your residence is close to such a facility, and you received a leukemia diagnosis, you may be entitled to file a compensation claim against the polluter responsible for your exposure. The Environmental Litigation Group has over 30 years of experience with toxic exposure cases, and our specialists understand that EtO-related leukemia claims require complicated scientific and medical evidence. Contact us now to learn more about your legal options.
