The GCIU is asking members and their families to participate in an investigation involving exposure to chemicals in the workplace and leukemia.

In a letter to local unions, GCIU Pres. George Tedeschi said the investigation is being conducted by a group of attorneys who are already working with several GCIU local unions where excess rates of leukemia have been found among members and retirees.

"If you, or any other union member you know, have suffered from [leukemia] there is a possibility you may have a legal cause of action," Tedeschi said. "Individuals suffering from leukemia, or in the case of death, their heirs, should seek legal advice immediately. Time is of the essence."

The group of attorneys, who do not work for the GCIU, may be reached toll-free at 1-866-386-8391. There is no charge for speaking with the attorneys or any obligation stemming from the phone call.

The attorneys include James Farragut, Farragut Law Firm, Pascagoula, Miss.; Tom B. Scott III, Scott & Scott, Jackson, Miss.; Stephen L. Shackelford, Jackson, Miss.; and Jeffrey A. Varas, The Varas Law Firm, Hazlehurst, Miss.

A petroleum distillate, benzene and its relatives–toluene and xylene–are aromatic or ring-shaped hydrocarbons that were widely used as solvents.

Before it was demonstrated to cause cancer and regulated as a human carcinogen by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the 1980s, benzene was common in press roller and blanket washes, type washes and film cleaners. Petroleum distillates also were used in inks, paints, coatings, and adhesives. Benzene also has been found to be a contaminant in products containing toluene, xylene, and mineral spirits.

Exposure to benzene has been linked to leukemia, especially acute myelogenous leukemia; lymphoma (cancer of the lymph system); thrombocytopenia (reduction in blood platelets necessary for blood clotting); anemias, including aplastic leukemia; and leukopenia (reduction in white blood cells necessary to fight infection).

Other long-term health effects from exposure to benzene, toluene, and xylene include permanent brain and nervous system damage–such as short-term memory loss, headaches, mood swings, depression, tremors, and weakness in the extremities–and liver and kidney damage.