Lung cancer and ethylene oxide: The airborne connection

Lung cancer is the second most common form of cancer affecting Americans. It is also the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Aside from smoking, other risk factors tied to lung cancer diagnosis include exposure to harmful and toxic chemicals such as EtO.

According to the ATSDR (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry), inhalation is the primary route of exposure to EtO, both in occupational and environmental settings. EtO in the environment has been traced mainly to industrial plants producing and handling this chemical, which release the gas into the air.

When inhaled, EtO can be quickly absorbed through the lungs and into the bloodstream. As a result, it can lead to the following consequences, all of which have been identified as precursors to lung cancer.

• DNA damage
• Genetic mutation
• Chromosomal damage in the lungs

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has tagged EtO as a known human carcinogen despite limited epidemiological studies. Among the reasons cited were the weight of evidence pointing to inhalation as the primary route of exposure that can lead to higher risks of lung cancer.

Groups at risk

Compared to the general population, some groups are more vulnerable to lung cancer as they experience more frequent exposure to EtO. These include industrial workers who handle equipment used in processing the chemical.

While research says that background EtO in the air may not cause serious health issues, residents living near EtO-producing facilities may still be at risk of lung cancer, especially for those living nearer to establishments manufacturing and handling EtO.

Some of the most common signs of lung cancer are:

• Coughing
• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Coughing up blood
• Persistent fatigue or feeling very tired all the time
• Shortness of breath

If you or someone you know has lung cancer and has been exposed to EtO, we advise you to contact our legal team today. You may be qualified for compensation that can greatly help in your treatment and journey to recovery. Generally, those eligible to file EtO exposure claims include:

• Industrial employees working in establishments that use ethylene oxide
• Residents within four miles of EtO-handling facilities
• Deceased family members who died due to EtO exposure-related lung cancer

Getting the right support for your toxic exposure claims

We can help you get started with your EtO exposure claims. For over 30 years, ELG Law has provided legal assistance to dozens of individuals struggling with cancers tied to toxic exposure cases.

Contact us today for a free case evaluation. If you qualify, we will get in touch with you promptly. You can count on our compassionate and experienced team to guide you every step of the way.