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Researchers are now saying that even small amounts of exposure to the chemical benzene can have dangerous health effects. Scientists have known that workers exposed to high doses of benzene have an increased risk of developing leukemia, but up until this point, potential dangers from exposure to smaller amounts of benzene have been unknown.
Researchers compared 250 workers exposed to benzene-laden glues in two shoe factories in China to 140 workers who sewed clothes in other Chinese factories, but who never came into contact with benzene. Measuring the benzene exposure by taking urine and blood samples and testing air in the factories, as well as in each worker''s home, scientists were surprised to find the low level of benzene exposure still affected white blood cell count.
Though the levels of benzene were under what is considered safe by U.S. guidelines, the workers still had fewer white blood cells, including granulocytes and B cells, when compared to unexposed workers. Even the workers exposed to less than 1 ppm of benzene, despite controlling other factors like smoking and other potential confounding factors, had an average of 15 percent to 18 percent fewer granulocytes and B cells than unexposed workers.
The workers did not show any signs of negative health, but the researchers say the study findings suggest low doses of benzene may have a damaging impact on bone marrow. Bone marrow is important in aiding the body fight off infection and disease.
Initial study results will need to be further examined to more conclusively determine the effects of low-dose exposure to benzene. Benzene can be found in a great number of sources, including second hand cigarette smoke, petrol vapors and air pollution.
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