Ethylene Oxide (or EtO) gas is a human carcinogen that may cause cancers including but not limited to breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, bladder cancer, prostate cancer, and ovarian cancer.

The EPA found that some North Chicago and Round Lake residents may be at an increased risk of cancer because of EtO emissions. Specifically, the EPA estimates that EtO emission in certain areas may have a cancer risk of up to 157 in 1 million—five times the national average.

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Edelson PC is filing ethylene oxide exposure lawsuits on behalf of residents and nearby workers who have been diagnosed with cancer. If you live or work in Lake County and have a recently confirmed cancer diagnosis, you may qualify for a lawsuit. Contact us for a free, no-obligation case review.

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The types of cancer that can be associated with long-term exposure to ethylene oxide include:

• Kidney Cancers
• Ovarian Cancers
• Pancreatic Cancers
• Prostate Cancers
• Stomach Cancers

• Bladder Cancers
• Blood, Lymphatic, and Bone Cancers (e.g., Leukemia, Lymphoma, Myeloma)
• Breast Cancers
• Brain Cancers

Short term inhalation of high concentrations of EtO can cause headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, respiratory irritation (e.g., coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing) and, in some cases, vomiting and other types of gastrointestinal distress.

The greatest risk is for people who live, have lived, or work near a facility releasing EtO into the air. Long-term exposure to Ethylene Oxide increases the risk of cancers of the white blood cells, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, myeloma, and lymphocytic leukemia. Furthermore, brain tumors and lung tumors are among the types of tumors observed in individuals exposed to EtO. Studies also show that long-term exposure to Ethylene Oxide increases the risk of breast cancer in females.

Additionally, high concentrations of EtO can cause an increased rate of miscarriages among females. Animal studies have shown that breathing Ethylene Oxide at high levels can interfere with their ability to reproduce and has caused developmental issues in their offspring.

Environmental issues even a few miles away from your home may still affect you and your family’s health and wellbeing. Edelson PC has been fighting for the rights of families and workers harmed by big corporations for years. If you have a recent cancer diagnosis, and you have been exposed to ethylene oxide, our team of attorneys are here for you.

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