More Information on Health Impacts

Nervous System Impacts 

Benzene is a volatile, nonpolar liquid. It evaporates quickly and easily dissolves into the lipid membranes of the lungs. When inhaled, it enters the bloodstream very fast and crosses the blood–brain barrier. This leads to short-term symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and confusion because benzene acts as a central nervous system depressant, slowing down brain activity. In high concentrations, exposure can cause loss of consciousness and, in extreme cases, death.

DNA Damage and Cancer Risks

The metabolites of benzene are highly reactive and can bind to DNA and proteins, forming DNA adducts. They also produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which break DNA strands and interfere with normal repair processes. Over time, this genetic damage accumulates in bone marrow stem cells, increasing the likelihood of mutations and chromosomal abnormalities. These mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell division, resulting in acute myeloid leukaemia and other blood-related cancers. Because of this, benzene is officially classified as a Group 1 carcinogen.

Bone Marrow Suppression

Benzene is metabolized in the liver by enzymes such as cytochrome P450 into toxic compounds like benzene oxide, phenol, and quinones. These metabolites travel to the bone marrow, where blood cells are formed, and damage the stem cells responsible for producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This disruption leads to fatigue from low oxygen, increased risk of infections, and easy bruising and bleeding. Even low-level, long-term exposure can gradually weaken the body’s ability to replenish healthy blood cells.

Immune System Disfunction

By damaging the bone marrow and lowering white blood cell counts, benzene weakens the body’s immune defences. This means people that are exposed to benzene are more likely to suffer from frequent or severe infections, and their bodies may heal more slow after injury. Benzene’s metabolites interfere with the enzymes and proteins that regulate immune cell growth and signalling. As a result, the immune system cannot respond effectively to bacteria, viruses, or other environmental threats, leaving people more vulnerable to sickness.