Ethylene Oxide Exposure Risks | Health Effects of EtO Exposure [2025 Guide]

Health Effects of Exposure to Ethylene Oxide: Overview

Exposure to ethylene oxide (EtO) gas, commonly used to sterilize medical equipment, poses significant health risks to both community members and workers.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified EtO as a human carcinogen due to the dangers associated with prolonged inhalation exposure.

Communities residing near commercial sterilization facilities are particularly vulnerable, as emissions can lead to chronic health conditions over time.

Occupational exposure in such facilities further exacerbates these risks, especially when safety protocols are inadequate.

When inhaled, ethylene oxide is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs.

Its high reactivity allows it to interact with various cellular components, leading to detrimental health effects.

Mechanism of Action:

• DNA Alkylation: EtO reacts with DNA, forming adducts that can cause mutations and chromosomal aberrations.
• Protein Modification: It binds to proteins, altering their structure and function, which can disrupt cellular processes.
• Oxidative Stress: The chemical induces the production of reactive oxygen species, leading to cellular damage.
• Inflammatory Response: EtO exposure can trigger inflammation in respiratory tissues, contributing to respiratory ailments.

These mechanisms collectively contribute to the development of various health issues, including cancer, neurological disorders, and reproductive toxicity.

The National Toxicology Program (NTP) has documented the carcinogenic risks associated with EtO, particularly its link to lymphoid cancers and breast cancer.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also published information about the compound’s potential to cause central nervous system effects, such as headaches, dizziness, and memory loss.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends stringent controls to minimize occupational exposure, citing evidence of reproductive toxicity and other long-term health effects.

Given these findings, it’s imperative for both community members and workers exposed to EtO to be aware of the associated health risks and for regulatory bodies to enforce measures that limit exposure.

How Ethylene Oxide Moves Through the Environment and Human Body

Ethylene oxide’s high vapor pressure and solubility allow it to disperse easily into the atmosphere, posing significant risks to communities and workers near emission sources.

Once released, EtO can travel considerable distances, leading to widespread environmental exposure.

Inhalation is the primary route of human exposure, especially for ethylene oxide plant workers and residents near sterilization facilities.

Upon inhalation, EtO is rapidly absorbed through the lungs and distributed via the bloodstream to various tissues.

Inside the body, EtO undergoes metabolism primarily in the liver, converting into ethylene glycol and other metabolites.

These metabolites are then excreted through urine.

However, EtO’s high reactivity can form adducts with DNA and proteins, leading to mutations and other cellular damage.

The health effects of EtO exposure are both acute and chronic.

Short-term exposure can cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Long-term exposure has been linked to more severe outcomes, including various cancers and reproductive toxicity.

Communities with cumulative exposure to EtO, especially those near sterilization facilities, face heightened health risks.

Studies have shown that even low-level, chronic exposure can lead to significant health issues over time.

Types of Cancer Linked to Ethylene Oxide Exposure

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is classified as a known human carcinogen by the National Toxicology Program and the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Epidemiological studies and animal experiments have identified multiple cancer types associated with EtO exposure, especially with long-term or high-level exposure.

In community settings, chronic inhalation of EtO (such as living near an emitting facility for many years) can elevate the risk of several cancers, mirroring patterns seen in occupationally exposed groups.

Types of cancer linked to ethylene oxide exposure may include:

• Breast Cancer
• Lymphohematopoietic Cancers (Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Leukemia, Multiple Myeloma)
• Stomach Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Lymphocytic Leukemia
• Myeloid Leukemia

Breast Cancer Risk from Ethylene Oxide Exposure

Long-term ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure has been strongly associated with increased breast cancer risk, especially among women.

In a large NIOSH study of over 7,500 female sterilization workers, those with the highest cumulative exposure had nearly double the risk of developing breast cancer compared to low-exposure groups.

The odds of breast cancer increased consistently with greater exposure, even when accounting for long latency periods.

A 2023 study by the National Cancer Institute (NCI)– the first to examine breast cancer in women living near EtO-emitting facilities – reported a 60% increase in early-stage breast cancer among women living within 3 kilometers of an EtO production facility.

While the increase wasn’t statistically significant for invasive cancers, the findings suggest that even lower-level environmental exposures may contribute to tumor development.

Lymphohematopoietic Cancers (Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Leukemia, Multiple Myeloma) Linked to EtO Exposure

Cancers of the blood and immune system—such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), lymphocytic leukemia, and multiple myeloma—are among the most strongly associated with long-term ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure.

Occupational studies have consistently shown elevated rates of these cancers in sterilization and chemical plant workers, particularly those with high cumulative inhalation exposure over many years.

In a large U.S. cohort of EtO-exposed male workers, researchers observed a clear increase in mortality from lymphoid cancers, with risk rising alongside higher cumulative exposure.

Additional studies, including Stayner et al. (2004), confirmed dose-response trends for these cancer types, especially when applying latency periods of 15 years or more.

Leukemia incidence was notably higher in workers with over a decade of exposure, and multiple myeloma often appeared alongside other lymphoid malignancies in analyses.

Stomach Cancer and Ethylene Oxide Exposure

Stomach cancer has emerged as a possible health outcome of long-term ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure, particularly in industrial settings where workers experience high and prolonged inhalation doses.

Several occupational cohort studies have reported increased mortality from stomach cancer among EtO production workers, though findings are less consistent than for blood-related cancers.

In a major European cohort of chemical plant employees, stomach cancer deaths exceeded expected rates, especially in those with over 10 years of exposure.

One study, referenced in the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ATSDR) Toxicological Profile, found a standardized mortality ratio (SMR) above 1.5 in long-term workers, suggesting a potential link between cumulative EtO exposure and stomach cancer risk.

Although these results are based on limited sample sizes, they align with findings from animal studies where EtO exposure led to gastrointestinal irritation and tumors in rodents.

Community exposure data remain sparse, but stomach cancer risk is biologically plausible due to EtO’s known genotoxicity and its ability to damage DNA in the gastrointestinal tract.

Given the long latency of cancer development, this potential link warrants further investigation in populations living near sterilization or chemical facilities.

Pancreatic Cancer Risk and EtO Exposure

Pancreatic cancer, known for its low survival rate, has been studied in relation to ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure.

While earlier research did not establish a significant link between EtO exposure and pancreatic cancer, more recent studies suggest a potential association, particularly with prolonged occupational exposure.

A comprehensive analysis of over 288,000 workers across 31 occupational health studies indicated that exposure to certain chemicals, including EtO, may account for 9% to 47% of pancreatic cancer cases among workers.

Notably, the risk of developing pancreatic cancer increased with each additional year of exposure to these chemicals.

Workers exposed for more than 20 years faced a 39% higher risk compared to those with shorter exposure durations.

These findings highlight the importance of monitoring and regulating EtO exposure in occupational settings to mitigate potential health risks.

Further research is necessary to fully understand the relationship between EtO exposure and pancreatic cancer, especially in community settings where data remains limited.

Lung Cancer and Ethylene Oxide Exposure

The relationship between ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure and lung cancer remains an area of ongoing research.

While EtO is a recognized human carcinogen, its direct association with lung cancer is less definitive compared to its established links to cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia.

Experimental animals have demonstrated that EtO can induce lung tumors in rodents following inhalation exposure, suggesting a potential carcinogenic effect on lung tissue.

The potential risk in humans cannot be entirely dismissed due to limited evidence, especially considering the chemical’s DNA-damaging properties.

Communities residing near EtO-emitting facilities may experience prolonged low-level exposure, which could contribute to cumulative health risks over time.

Further research is necessary to clarify the extent of lung cancer risk associated with EtO, particularly in environmental settings.

Lymphocytic Leukemia and Ethylene Oxide Exposure

Long-term exposure to ethylene oxide (EtO) has been linked to an increased risk of lymphocytic leukemia, a type of cancer affecting white blood cells.

This association is particularly evident among exposed workers in industries utilizing EtO for sterilization and chemical manufacturing.

A significant study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) involving over 18,000 sterilization workers found a positive correlation between cumulative EtO exposure and mortality from lymphoid cancers, including lymphocytic leukemia.

The risk escalated with higher exposure levels and longer durations, underscoring a dose-response relationship.

Further research supports these findings.

For instance, a study observed a 4.3-fold increase in lymphoma risk, encompassing chronic lymphocytic leukemia, among individuals with medium to high frequency of EtO exposure.

These results reinforce the classification of EtO as a human carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

While most data derive from occupational settings, concerns extend to communities near EtO-emitting facilities.

Residents in proximity to such sites may face elevated risks due to chronic low-level exposure, highlighting the need for stringent emission controls and ongoing health monitoring.

Myeloid Leukemia and Ethylene Oxide Exposure

Myeloid leukemias, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), have been investigated for potential links to ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure.

While EtO is recognized as a human carcinogen, the evidence connecting it specifically to myeloid leukemias is less conclusive compared to its established associations with lymphoid malignancies.

Animal studies have demonstrated that EtO exposure can lead to the development of various cancers, including leukemia, in rodents.

These findings suggest a potential carcinogenic effect of EtO on hematopoietic tissues.

Epidemiological studies in humans have yielded mixed results.

Some occupational studies have reported increased risks of leukemia among workers exposed to EtO, but these studies often do not differentiate between lymphoid and myeloid subtypes.

A meta-analysis of 10 cohort studies involving approximately 29,800 workers found associations between EtO exposure and certain cancers, but the data specific to myeloid leukemias were limited.

Given the current evidence, while there is a recognized risk of leukemia associated with EtO exposure, the specific relationship between EtO and myeloid leukemias like AML and CML remains less definitive as it stands.

Non-Cancer Health Effects of Ethylene Oxide Exposure: Overview

Ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure is associated with various non-cancer health effects, particularly in occupational settings where exposure levels are higher.

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has documented several adverse health outcomes resulting from EtO exposure.

While the general population’s exposure levels are typically lower, concerns remain regarding chronic exposure near industrial facilities.

Inhalation is the primary route of EtO exposure, leading to both acute and chronic health effects.

Short-term exposure can cause respiratory irritation, including coughing and shortness of breath.

Long-term exposure has been linked to more severe respiratory issues, such as lung injury.

Neurological effects are also a concern.

Workers exposed to EtO have reported headaches, nausea, memory loss, and numbness.

These symptoms suggest that EtO can affect the central nervous system.

Reproductive toxicity is another significant non-cancer health effect of EtO exposure.

Animal studies have shown that EtO can cause developmental effects, such as decreased fetal weight and delayed ossification.

There is also evidence suggesting that EtO exposure may lead to spontaneous abortions in humans.

Non-Cancer Health Effects of Ethylene Oxide Exposure:

• Respiratory irritation (coughing, shortness of breath)
• Neurological effects (headaches, nausea, memory loss, numbness)
• Reproductive toxicity (developmental effects, spontaneous abortions)
• Skin and eye irritation
• Gastrointestinal effects (nausea, vomiting)
• Hematological effects (anemia)
• Immunological effects
• Endocrine disruption
• Liver and kidney damage
• Cardiovascular effects

Employee exposure to EtO is a significant concern in industries that use this chemical for sterilization and manufacturing.

Proper safety measures and monitoring are essential to minimize health risks.

General population exposure to EtO typically occurs through environmental release from industrial facilities.

While exposure levels are generally lower than in occupational settings, long-term exposure can still pose health risks.

Environmental health assessments are crucial in identifying and mitigating the risks associated with EtO exposure.

Monitoring air quality and implementing emission controls can help protect communities near EtO-emitting facilities.

Secondary effects of EtO exposure include its contribution to the formation of other chemicals, such as ethylene glycol, which have their own health risks.

Understanding the broader chemical interactions is essential for comprehensive risk assessments.

While EtO is a valuable industrial chemical, its potential non-cancer health effects necessitate careful handling, monitoring, and regulation to protect both workers and the general population.

How Much Ethylene Oxide Exposure is Dangerous for Human Health?

According to the EPA’s Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Airborne Chemicals (AEGLs), even small amounts of ethylene oxide (EtO) in the air can be harmful to your health.

The EPA has found that breathing EtO at levels as low as 11 parts per trillion over a long period may raise the risk of developing cancer — especially in communities near sterilization plants that release EtO into the air.

For occupational settings, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) allows no more than 1 part per million over an 8-hour shift.

But health experts at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) say that level may still be too high and instead recommend a much lower limit of 0.1 parts per million to better protect workers.

When exposure happens for a short time, the EPA has set guidelines showing that breathing 7.9 parts per million for eight hours could cause serious health effects.

At even higher levels — 35 parts per million for eight hours — exposure could be life-threatening.

In environmental contexts, the EPA considers long-term exposure to EtO concentrations as low as 11 parts per trillion (ppt) to pose a one-in-10,000 increased cancer risk, which is the upper limit of acceptable risk for air toxics.

Recent studies have found EtO levels in some communities near industrial facilities to be significantly higher than this benchmark.

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has identified minimal risk levels (MRLs) for EtO inhalation exposure: 0.4 ppm for acute-duration (up to 14 days) and 0.07 ppm for intermediate-duration (15–364 days) exposures.

In short, both government scientists and public health agencies agree: ethylene oxide is dangerous at much lower levels than many people might expect, and long-term exposure — even to tiny amounts — can increase the risk of cancer and other health problems.

Ethylene Oxide Exposure Lawsuits

Ethylene oxide exposure lawsuits are being filed across the country by individuals who lived or worked near commercial sterilization facilities and later developed cancer or other serious health conditions.

These lawsuits allege that companies released dangerous levels of ethylene oxide (EtO) into the air, putting surrounding communities and employees at risk.

Plaintiffs claim they were never properly warned about the carcinogenic risks associated with long-term EtO exposure.

Facilities in Illinois, Georgia, Texas, and other states have faced litigation due to documented emissions and elevated cancer rates nearby.

Scientific research and data from the EPA and National Cancer Institute have linked ethylene oxide exposure to breast cancer, lymphoid cancers, and other severe illnesses.

Ethylene Oxide Lawsuits often focus on the failure to implement adequate emission controls or comply with safety regulations.

Many victims are seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering caused by their diagnoses.

TorHoerman Law is actively investigating ethylene oxide lawsuits and representing people harmed by exposure to this hazardous chemical.

If you or a loved one lived or worked near a facility where ethylene oxide was released and have been diagnosed with cancer or another serious health condition, you may be eligible to file an Ethylene Oxide Exposure Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law’s Ethylene Oxide Lawyers for a free consultation.

You can also use the chat feature on this page to find out if you qualify for an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit instantly.

Gathering Evidence for an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit

Building a strong Ethylene Oxide (EtO) lawsuit requires credible, well-documented evidence linking your health condition to known chemical exposure.

This includes proof that you lived or worked near a facility where ethylene oxide was released and were diagnosed with a related illness.

Medical records, environmental reports, and expert analysis can all help support your claim.

Below are common types of evidence used in EtO exposure lawsuits:

• Proof of residence or employment near an EtO-emitting facility
• Medical records showing diagnosis of EtO-related illnesses (e.g. breast cancer, leukemia)
• Air monitoring data or EPA emissions reports
• Facility permit violations or compliance history
• Expert testimony linking exposure to health outcomes

Damages in Ethylene Oxide Lawsuits

In a lawsuit, “damages” refer to the financial compensation sought for harm caused by another party’s negligence or misconduct.

In Ethylene Oxide (EtO) lawsuits, this typically means compensation for health issues caused by toxic exposure to EtO released from commercial sterilization or manufacturing facilities.

People diagnosed with cancer or other serious illnesses due to ethylene oxide exposure may face years of medical treatment, lost wages, and significant emotional hardship.

A damages claim helps cover both the economic and non-economic impact of this harm.

Common Damages in Ethylene Oxide Exposure Lawsuits may include:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Disability or loss of quality of life
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
• Costs for long-term care or rehabilitation
• Emotional distress and mental health treatment needs

What Medical Sterilization Facilities are Under Investigation for Ethylene Oxide Emissions?

Several medical sterilization facilities across the United States have come under investigation for their emissions of ethylene oxide (EtO).

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified nearly 90 commercial sterilization facilities that are subject to stricter regulations aimed at reducing EtO emissions by 90% .

Notable facilities under scrutiny include:

• Sterigenics, Willowbrook, Illinois: This facility was permanently closed in 2019 following community concerns and legal actions related to high EtO emissions.
• Sterigenics, Smyrna, Georgia: This facility has faced lawsuits from community members alleging serious health effects, including cancer.
• Medline Industries, Waukegan, Illinois: Faced lawsuits alleging that EtO emissions caused cancer and other health issues among nearby residents.
• Becton Dickinson (BD), Covington, Georgia: Subject to legal action by the Georgia State Attorney General due to concerns over EtO emissions.

These investigations and regulatory actions reflect growing awareness and concern over the health impacts of ethylene oxide emissions from medical sterilization facilities.

TorHoerman Law: Investigating Ethylene Oxide Exposure Lawsuits

TorHoerman Law continues to investigate claims related to ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure from commercial sterilization facilities and chemical plants across the country.

Our law firm is analyzing environmental data, reviewing emissions records, and working with public health experts to understand how EtO exposure may have contributed to serious illnesses in surrounding communities.

From Willowbrook, Illinois, to Smyrna, Georgia, reports of elevated cancer rates near EtO-emitting facilities have raised widespread concern.

Our investigation prioritizes both occupational and environmental exposure cases, with a focus on facilities that have released EtO into densely populated residential areas.

Publicly available records from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state environmental agencies, and independent health studies serve as the basis for case reviews.

The legal questions involve not just toxic exposure, but whether corporations failed to warn residents, monitor emissions, or implement adequate controls.

As more data emerges about long-term EtO exposure and its links to cancer, reproductive harm, and neurological conditions, the scope of potential litigation continues to expand.

TorHoerman Law remains committed to holding corporations accountable for exposing workers and communities to a known human carcinogen without sufficient safeguards.

If you or a loved one have been exposed to ethylene oxide emissions and developed cancer or other serious health problems, you may be eligible to file an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit and seek compensation.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

Use the chat feature on this page to find out if you qualify for an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit instantly.