Benzene is a continuous compound present in nature. It is harmful to human life, which makes it a dangerous substance. Benzene is a liquid that doesnt have any color, and is distinguishable by a sweet aroma. It dissolves incompletely in water and will evaporate fast when exposed to air.

Benzene is used in making paints, pesticides, plastics, synthetic rubber, household cleaners, glues and adhesives. It is also used in making gasoline, which is used to make machines that need fuel run. Benzene is the substance responsible for the strong fumes that come from household chemicals and gasoline. Low-level exposure to benzene will not pose serious health risks. In addition, the EPA and FDA make sure that benzene in food items and drinks stay in a harmless level.

Benzene’s Affect on the Environment

Benzene is widely used in the processing and making of products which people use every day, although people may not be aware of it as it does not present itself commonly in its natural form.

When in the air, benzene reacts with other chemicals in gas form but breaks down after a few days. However, it does not dissolve completely in the water and soil so it can leach down into underground water. No research has shown that benzene builds up in plants and animals.

How Can Anyone be Exposed to Benzene?

Benzene is used items we use every day. It is also used in making gasoline, which is in turn used to give power to machines that need fuel, such as lawn mowers and cars. It is also used in adhesives, glues, paint, synthetic rubber, household cleaning supplies; Benzene is the one responsible for the strong and foul fumes everyday items emit.

Benzene Exposure and Health Issues

Products with Benzene give off fumes into the air, where people get exposed to the substance. Some examples are pain, glue and gasoline fumes, and cigarette smoke. Short-term symptoms of the exposure include skin irritation, drowsiness and dizziness.

Prolonged exposures to benzene have harmful effects to the bone marrow, which can lead to serious health problems like myelodysplastic syndrome, aplastic anemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, and other blood-related diseases. Benzene must be measured through tests shortly after exposure because it rapidly dissolves and evaporates.