BP Oil Spill, BP Oil Spill Cleanup Workers BLOG POST

Exposure to Crude Oil and Corexit Dispersant Linked to Blood Disease

Following the January 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, area residents and cleanup workers exposed to the highly toxic combination of crude oil and chemical dispersants are getting sick.

A recent study released by the University Cancer and Diagnostic Center in Houston indicates that those exposed to the spill are exhibiting the same health issues that have been seen in other oil spill exposures.

Researchers examined and interviewed hundreds of Gulf residents and cleanup workers and compared their blood tests to a control group that was never exposed to the spill. The exposed group showed reduced platelet counts and reduced levels of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, indicating increased risk for blood disease.

The exposed group also had elevated levels of enzymes present in the liver — alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alanine amino transferase (ALT). These enzymes are responsible for essential liver function, including:

• Detoxification — Carrying toxins out of the bloodstream for elimination
• Metabolism — Converting food, vitamins and light into energy for body functioning
• Biosynthesis — The body’s cells building proteins

When these basic functions are impaired, the body’s major organ systems begin to shut down. Dr. Mark A. D’Andrea, one of the lead investigators in the university study, stated that the alteration in enzyme levels leads to biochemical impairment and lesions in the body’s tissues. Dr. D’Andrea also reviews some of the BP Medical Benefits Settlement Claims, and will be evaluating some of our clients, among many others, in the affected Texas area.

Elevated liver enzymes can have serious health implications, including metastatic liver tumors, cirrhosis, inflammation of the pancreas, heart attack, gangrene and stroke. Common symptoms suffered by those exposed to the crude oil and dispersants include headache, dizziness, fatigue, respiratory infection and chest pains.

Residents of the Gulf region and cleanup workers who are ill as a result of exposure to crude oil and Corexit dispersant are eligible for monetary compensation from BP. Contact The Downs Law Group to find out if you qualify.