Benzene is a component of crude oil known to cause health problems in humans.  Direct exposure to benzene has been linked to leukemia.  Exposure to benzene in the environment was a suspected cause of birth defects, but there was no ironclad proof.  Until now.

A recent federal study concluded that ambient (environmental) exposure of benzene to pregnant women can cause spina bifida in babies.  Spina bifida is a birth defect involving incomplete formation of the spine that can result in severe and permanent disability.  Spina bifida occurs more often in the Hispanic population, but the condition afflicts babies of all races and national origins.

This groundbreaking study, by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences is important because it provides mainstream scientific support for the claim that babies with spina bifida whose mothers lived in the shadows of refineries are victims of poisoning.  This means they can sue the polluters.

Under Texas law, scientific evidence must come from peer-reviewed research from generally accepted sources.  To prove a link between an environmental exposure and a health condition, the research must show more than a “doubling” of the risk.  This study meets both criteria.

This is particularly important to Southeast Texans.  As the Houston Chronicle reported on October 28, 2010, citing an EPA report, “Texas leads the nation in benzene releases, accounting for more than one-third of emissions among the states.”  While benzene releases have declined over the past five years, there are many children with spina bifida who may now have a right to recover damages.

If you know anyone who suffers from this tragic condition, tell them to read the study, and then call a lawyer.

Have a safe Halloween weekend!