What causes non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

Causes of non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Doctors often cannot explain why one person develops cancer and another does not. But research shows that certain risk factors increase the chance that a person will develop cancer.

Exposure to organic solvents is a reported risk factor for developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma according to peer reviewed, scientific literature that has analyzed causes of this disease.

Workers exposed to benzene and other organic solvents in print shops, petroleum refineries, petroleum distribution facilities, tire and rubber manufacturing plants, gasoline stations, chemical plants, and other industries are at an increased risk for developing this disease.

Many products are still on the market that contain organic solvents. They are added to products that are used for many purposes such as to clean and degrease equipment or surfaces, to remove coatings, such as strippers, and as paint and ink thinners and removers. Products that contain mixtures of organic solvents or benzene can be particularly harmful to some people.

How do lymphomas come about?

Lymphoma is one of the cancers of the blood-forming organs. It is a cancer of the cells of the lymph system which is part of the body’s immune system. These cells are originally formed in the bone marrow found on the inside of larger bones like the femur (upper leg bone). Bone marrow has very active cells which include stem cells. A stem cell is an immature cell that eventually can become any number of different cells, as well as reproduce itself. If such an important cell’s DNA is damaged, then every cell arising from that cell will also be defective.

How do organic solvents like benzene cause non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL)?

When toxins like benzene reach the bone marrow they depress the ability of the bone marrow to produce its normal compliment of cells. They also damage the immune system and interrupt its ability to produce the types and number of cells needed by the body. The chromosomes and the DNA of these very early cells are damaged. They then produce genetically abnormal cells than can lead to cancer like non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

Petroleum-derived volatile organic solvents such as napthas and benzene affect the blood-forming organs. These chemicals are very quickly and easily absorbed through the lungs, and through the skin. Workers in many industries are often exposed to these toxic substances without proper protection. Once in the body they are distributed in proportion to where the bloods flows, and unfortunately a significant portion of the blood flow is through the bone marrow. Organic solvents are toxic to the bone marrow where they can cause genetic changes. In addition, the liver breaks down these chemicals into other toxic substances that also pass through the bone marrow causing further damage.

Cancer is a disorder of the cell. Normal cells have normal DNA (the genetic code) which makes them behave properly. They stay where they are supposed to rather than invading other tissue. In some cells, as a result of damage to the cell’s genetic information plus changes in the immune system and certain growth factors become disorderly. They don’t behave the way healthy cells do. When cells become cancer they invade other tissue and consume greater and greater amounts of nutrients. They reproduce rapidly, and crowd themselves and other cells forming tumors. A series of genetic changes can eventually lead to a normal cell becoming cancer.

More Information on Benzene

See the Benzene Information Center on the Paul and Hanley LLP site for more information.

Legal Questions

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) and think it may be caused by toxic exposure to organic solvents like benzene, and you have legal questions or require legal assistance, contact Paul & Hanley LLP.

Our firm has an outstanding track record of success in cases across the country, and our lawyers are known for their honesty, integrity and compassion. We've built our reputation on toxic tort litigation representing individuals diagnosed with NHL, mesothelioma and other serious diseases with dignity and respect.

We handle a select number of cases at a time and represent workers and families with the extra special attention required for the best possible outcome in each case. We understand your case is unique, so we take the time to get to know you and your family. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. We'll discuss your specific case and give you honest answers to your important questions. Our toll free telephone number is 800 933-2244. We look forward to helping you.