Jones Act: Leukemia claims

How benzene exposure leads to leukemia

After inhalation or absorption, benzene travels in the bloodstream directly to the bone marrow, where it disrupts the production of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. At the cellular level, benzene disrupts this process:

• Causes chromosomal aberrations and damages the stem cells that produce healthy blood cells 
• Changes genes associated with blood cell development, allowing mutations to accrue over time 
• When this genetic damage accrues, abnormal myeloid cells begin to proliferate uncontrollably, leading to AML

Occupational cohort studies of petroleum, chemical, and industry workers always demonstrate a dose-response relationship, where the risk of leukemia increases in proportion to the amount of benzene exposure that workers acquire. The National Cancer Institute identifies benzene as a major cause of blood-forming tissue cancers, with the strongest evidence concentrated in AML.

Maritime workers encounter benzene through marine fuel handling, petroleum cargo operations, tank cleaning, engine room work, and degreasing solvents. Enclosed shipboard compartments with poor ventilation concentrate fuel vapors, extending the duration and intensity of exposure during every shift spent below deck.