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Deodorant and Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma Risk Due to Benzene Contamination

In the wake of the alarming discovery of cancer-causing benzene in deodorants, including certain spray-on varieties of Old Spice and Secret deodorants and antiperspirants, many consumers are wondering about the potential connection between benzene-contaminated deodorant and non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL). 

Benzene is a known carcinogen, meaning that it can cause cancer in humans. Among these potential cancers are non-Hodgkins lymphoma, various forms of leukemia, and multiple myeloma. In this article, we’ll examine the potential link between benzene-contaminated deodorant and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

AUGUST 2023 UPDATE: Please note that as of August 2023, we can no longer accept cases involving benzene contamination due to developments in the litigation. Please stay tuned to our website for more information as this litigation evolves.

Can Benzene in Deodorant Cause Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma?

Can Deodorant Cause Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma - Benzene Exposure RiskThe science linking benzene (the dangerous chemical recently discovered in several popular brands of spray-on deodorant) and non-Hodgkins lymphoma is relatively clear. According to numerous studies, there is a clear link between benzene and non-Hodgkins lymphoma, meaning that an association between benzene-contaminated deodorant and NHL may be likely.

So, what should those who have used benzene-contaminated deodorants like certain Old Spice and Secret products know about the potential risks of non-Hodgkins lymphoma? Let’s take a look at the research.

Research on Benzene and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Studies examining the potential link between benzene and non-Hodgkins lymphoma have uncovered alarming evidence that should be considered in light of the recall of Old Spice and Secret deodorants and antiperspirants for benzene contamination.

Recent studies supporting the claim that exposure to benzene causes non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma include:

  • A 2021 systematic review in The Lancet medical journal that determined there was “an increased meta-relative risk [of developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma] … in highly exposed groups.” Researchers concluded that the study supports a “causal link between benzene exposure and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, especially for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.”
  • A 2007 study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention that concluded that “the evidence supports an association between occupational benzene exposure and NHL.”
  • A 2015 population-based study in Environmental Health Perspectives that found that “women exposed to benzene had a significantly higher risk of NHL.” 
  • A 2013 study published in Cancer, the journal of the American Cancer Society, that investigated the rate of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma occurrence among people based on proximity to known benzene contamination. Researchers reported that “NHL incidence was significantly higher in census tracts that were closer, on average, to benzene release sites.”

Based on these studies and other supporting evidence, it can be reasonably assumed that exposure to benzene in contaminated deodorants and antiperspirants could potentially cause non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

In the wake of an independent lab’s discovery of benzene in certain spray-on deodorants, scientists will be examining this potential link more closely. Stay tuned to our website for the latest information on the scientific research and unfolding litigation.

What is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?

According to the Mayo Clinic, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system affecting a certain type of white blood cells called lymphocytes. In patients with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, lymphocytes grow abnormally and can form tumors throughout the body. NHL is a specific type of lymphoma, and there are many sub-types of non-Hodgkins lymphoma, including but not limited to:

  • Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
  • F0llicular lymphoma
  • Anaplastic large cell lymphoma
  • Burkitt lymphoma
  • Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
  • Lymphoblastic lymphoma

There are more than 30 types of non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Some of the more common symptoms of NHL include:

  • Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck, armpits, or groin
  • Abdominal pain and/or swelling
  • Coughing, trouble breathing, and chest pain
  • Persistent fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fever
  • Night sweats

If you’ve experienced any of these or other symptoms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, consult with your doctor immediately.

Is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Deadly?

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma can be deadly, but there are promising treatments available.

NHL can be very treatable and if caught early, the prognosis is often relatively positive. According to the Cleveland Clinic, treatments for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma include traditional chemotherapy, targeted anti-cancer medications, biologic therapy (also called immunotherapy), and radiation therapy. Patients with NHL may also qualify for a clinical trial involving new and experimental medications and therapies.

“I developed non-Hodgkins lymphoma after using a recalled deodorant. What are my options?”

Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma Deodorant Lawsuit - Riddle & BrantleyAUGUST 2023 UPDATE: Please note that as of August 2023, we can no longer accept cases involving benzene contamination due to developments in the litigation. Please stay tuned to our website for more information as this litigation evolves.

“Benzene in contaminated deodorant may cause non-Hodkgins and other types of cancer, and we’re committed to holding potentially negligent manufacturers accountable.”

-Gene Riddle, deodorant lawsuit attorney

PLEASE NOTE: Compensable claims related to these spray-on deodorants and body sprays do NOT include rash or burning under the arms.

Why Riddle & Brantley?

Since 1985, our attorneys have been holding potentially negligent manufacturers like Proctor & Gamble accountable. We’ve recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation for our deserving clients, and we pride ourselves on providing excellent client service (see disclaimer below). We invite you to see for yourself the Riddle & Brantley difference by calling us today at 1-800-525-7111.

Justice Counts for those whose non-Hodgkins lymphoma was potentially caused by benzene in deodorant, and we would love to help however we can.

 


*** Disclaimer: The results mentioned are intended to illustrate the type of cases handled by the firm. These results do not guarantee a similar outcome, and they should not be construed to constitute a promise or guarantee of a particular result in any particular case. Every case is different, and the outcome of any case depends upon a variety of factors unique to that case.