Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit [2025 Update] | Ethylene Oxide Exposure Claims

Ethylene Oxide Exposure Lawsuit Overview

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a colorless, flammable gas widely used to sterilize medical devices that cannot withstand high-temperature steam sterilization.

Despite its efficacy in sterilization, EtO is recognized as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a division of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Chronic inhalation exposure to EtO has been linked to an increased incidence of lymphatic and hematopoietic cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and leukemia, as well as breast cancer.

Communities residing near facilities with uncontrolled industrial emissions of EtO face elevated cancer risks due to cumulative exposure over time.

In response to these health concerns, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented stringent regulations to reduce EtO emissions from commercial sterilization facilities by over 90%, aiming to mitigate the associated cancer risks.

Numerous lawsuits have been filed against companies operating EtO-emitting facilities, alleging negligence in controlling emissions and failure to protect public health.

Plaintiffs seek compensation for health issues attributed to EtO exposure.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, or another serious illness after living or working near a facility emitting ethylene oxide, you may be eligible to file an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit.

TorHoerman Law is investigating claims nationwide to help affected individuals seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Contact us today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your rights.

You can also use the chat feature on this page to find out if you’re eligible to file an Ethylene Oxide Exposure Lawsuit instantly.

What Medical Sterilization Facilities Emit Ethylene Oxide?

Environmental exposure to ethylene oxide is a serious concern near facilities that use this chemical as a sterilizing agent for medical devices and medical equipment.

Long-term exposure to EtO emissions from these plants has been linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and other serious illnesses.

Residents and workers in surrounding communities may have been unknowingly exposed to hazardous levels of ethylene oxide for years.

Many lawsuits allege that companies failed to adequately control emissions or warn the public about the dangers of cumulative exposure.

Facilities Currently Under Investigation:

• Sterigenics Sterilization Plant – Atlanta, Georgia
• Sterilization Services of Georgia – Atlanta, Georgia
• Kendall Patient Recovery U.S. (KPR) – Augusta, GA
• Becton Dickinson and Company (BD) – Covington, GA
• Becton Dickinson and Company (BD) – Madison, GA

We are also investigating ethylene oxide exposure claims in the following states, beyond the facilities listed above:

• Colorado
• Florida
• Massachusetts
• Maryland
• Missouri
• Nebraska
• New Jersey
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Puerto Rico
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Virginia

Lawsuits Against Sterilization Facilities Have Resulted in Significant Compensation

Multiple lawsuits against Sterigenics and other medical sterilization companies have resulted in substantial financial compensation for victims affected by ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure.

One of the most notable cases involved the Sterigenics Willowbrook Facility, where residents and workers alleged that prolonged toxic exposure to EtO emissions led to increased cancer rates in the surrounding community.

In 2022, a jury awarded $363 million to a plaintiff who developed breast cancer after years of exposure from the Sterigenics Willowbrook Plant.

This verdict was followed by a 2023 global settlement of $408 million to resolve hundreds of lawsuits filed by Illinois residents.

These results demonstrate that courts recognize the serious health risks associated with EtO exposure, holding negligent companies accountable for their actions.

Notable EtO Lawsuit Results:

• $363 million verdict (2022): Awarded to a single plaintiff in a lawsuit against Sterigenics Willowbrook Plant for EtO-related breast cancer.
• $408 million global settlement (2023): Resolved multiple lawsuits from Illinois residents exposed to emissions from Sterigenics Willowbrook Facility.
• $35 million settlement in Gwinnett County, Georgia: Compensation awarded in a case involving cancer clusters near a Sterigenics facility.

Health Effects of Ethylene Oxide (EtO) Exposure

Human exposure to ethylene oxide has been linked to numerous adverse health effects, including an increased risk of cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

Scientific evidence has established a strong causal association between EtO exposure and the development of lymphohematopoietic cancers, such as lymphocytic leukemia, lymphoid cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Communities and workers exposed to long-term EtO emissions face an elevated risk of developing breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and other malignancies.

The carcinogenic risks of EtO have been acknowledged by leading health agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), National Toxicology Program (a division of the National Institute of Health), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The general population living near medical sterilization plants may have been unknowingly exposed to unsafe EtO levels for years, leading to severe health consequences.

Occupational exposure among workers handling EtO has also been tied to an increased risk of reproductive harm and immune system disorders.

Known human health effects of exposure to ethylene oxide include:

• Breast cancer
• Lymphohematopoietic cancers (lymphocytic leukemia, lymphoid cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, Hodgkin lymphoma)
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
• Neurological effects (dizziness, cognitive impairment, memory loss, headaches, peripheral neuropathy)
• Reproductive toxicity (miscarriages, infertility, birth defects)
• Immune system suppression
• Genetic mutations and cellular damage

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with cancer or other serious health conditions after prolonged exposure to EtO emissions, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law today to discuss your legal options.

Symptoms of Exposure to Ethylene Oxide

Exposed workers and communities living near facilities that emit toxic substances like ethylene oxide may experience a range of immediate and long-term health symptoms.

Respiratory irritation is one of the earliest signs of exposure, as EtO can cause inflammation and damage to the lungs.

Symptoms affecting the gastrointestinal tract, such as nausea and vomiting, have also been reported among individuals exposed to high levels of EtO.

Secondary effects of chronic exposure can include neurological issues, reproductive complications, and immune system suppression.

Many symptoms worsen with prolonged exposure, making early recognition critical for those living or working near EtO-emitting facilities.

Common symptoms of ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure include:

• Respiratory irritation (chronic cough, wheezing, shortness of breath)
• Eye and skin irritation (burning sensation, redness, rashes)
• Gastrointestinal tract symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
• Neurological symptoms (dizziness, headaches, memory loss, cognitive impairment)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Hormonal and reproductive issues (irregular menstrual cycles, fertility problems)
• Increased susceptibility to infections due to immune suppression
• Chronic exposure-related secondary effects, including an elevated risk of cancer and long-term organ damage

Scientific Evidence on the Health Effects of Exposure to Ethylene Oxide

Extensive scientific research has established that ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure poses significant health risks to humans.

Occupational studies have demonstrated a clear association between EtO exposure and increased incidences of various cancers, particularly those affecting the lymphatic and hematopoietic systems.

Experimental animal studies have provided sufficient evidence of EtO’s carcinogenicity, reinforcing concerns about its impact on human health.

Beyond its carcinogenic properties, EtO exposure has been linked to adverse reproductive outcomes and neurological effects.

The following studies offer detailed insights into the health effects associated with EtO exposure:​

• NIOSH Study on Sterilizer Workers (2004): This large-scale epidemiological study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) investigated sterilizer workers with well-defined EtO exposure assessments. The findings revealed positive exposure-response trends for lymphohematopoietic cancer mortality, particularly among males, and an increased risk of breast cancer mortality in females.
• EPA Evaluation of Inhalation Carcinogenicity (2016): The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted an assessment addressing the potential carcinogenicity from long-term inhalation exposure to EtO. This evaluation updated previous assessments and reinforced the classification of EtO as carcinogenic to humans, providing critical data for regulatory decisions aimed at protecting public health.
• OSHA Fact Sheet on EtO (2021): The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released a fact sheet summarizing both human and animal studies that demonstrate EtO’s carcinogenicity, including risks of leukemia and other cancers. The document also highlights EtO’s association with reproductive effects, genetic damage, and neurotoxicity, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and controlling occupational exposure.
• ATSDR Clinician Brief on EtO (2021): The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) provided a clinician brief indicating that even lower levels of EtO exposure (0.08-0.17 ppm) can lead to detectable biomarkers of exposure, DNA damage, and hematological effects. This underscores the potential health risks associated with EtO, even at relatively low exposure levels. ​
• EPA’s Health Effects Notebook for Hazardous Air Pollutants: The EPA’s Health Effects Notebook includes a summary fact sheet on EtO, detailing its classification as a human carcinogen and associated health risks. The document serves as a resource for understanding the toxicological profile of EtO and its implications for public health.

Why is Ethylene Oxide Used to Sterilize Medical Equipment?

​Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a colorless, flammable gas with a slightly sweet odor, primarily used as a chemical intermediate in the production of ethylene glycol and other chemicals.

EtO is highly reactive and is used for its ability to penetrate various materials, making it an effective sterilizing agent.

EtO is particularly useful for sterilizing medical equipment and supplies that are sensitive to heat or moisture, such as certain plastics, electronics, and surgical instruments.

The use of EtO for sterilization dates back to the late 1950s, when it was developed as a method to ensure the sterility of medical devices without causing damage.

This method allows for the sterilization of complex and delicate instruments that cannot withstand traditional high-temperature steam sterilization.

EtO’s effectiveness against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, has made it a widely adopted sterilization technique in the healthcare industry.

Despite its benefits, EtO is recognized as a human carcinogen, and exposure to it has been associated with various health risks, requiring strict regulatory controls and safety measures during its use.

Facilities utilizing EtO for sterilization are required to adhere to stringent guidelines to minimize emissions and protect both workers and surrounding communities from potential exposure.

Ongoing advancements aim to develop alternative sterilization methods; however, EtO remains a critical component in ensuring the sterility of many medical devices that cannot be effectively sterilized by other means.

Regulations on Ethylene Oxide Emissions

Due to its classification as a human carcinogen and its potential environmental health impacts, EtO emissions are subject to stringent regulatory controls.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees these regulations under the Clean Air Act, aiming to mitigate toxic exposure and associated cancer risks.

In April 2024, the EPA finalized more stringent air emission standards to significantly reduce EtO emissions from commercial sterilizers, addressing concerns about uncontrolled industrial emissions and their health implications.

These regulatory actions are part of a broader effort to protect both workers and communities exposed to EtO.

The processing generally consists of implementing advanced emission control technologies and adhering to rigorous operational protocols to limit EtO release into the atmosphere.

Continuous monitoring and compliance assessments are integral components of these regulations.

Key Regulatory Actions on Ethylene Oxide Emissions:

• EPA’s Final Rule to Reduce EtO Emissions (April 2024): The EPA implemented more stringent air emission standards targeting commercial sterilizers to significantly reduce EtO emissions and associated cancer risks. ​
• National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP): These standards set maximum achievable control technology (MACT) requirements for facilities emitting hazardous air pollutants like EtO, aiming to protect public health by minimizing emissions. ​
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Regulations: OSHA has established permissible exposure limits (PELs) for EtO in the workplace to protect workers from adverse health effects, including cancer and reproductive issues. ​
• State-Level Actions (e.g., Illinois EPA): State agencies, such as the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, have taken additional measures to assess and control EtO emissions, including facility inspections and community air monitoring programs.
• EPA’s Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) Assessment: The EPA’s IRIS program has evaluated EtO’s carcinogenicity, providing a scientific basis for regulatory decisions and risk management strategies.

These regulatory actions collectively aim to reduce EtO emissions, thereby protecting environmental health and minimizing the risk of cancer and other adverse effects among exposed populations.

Do You Qualify for an Ethylene Oxide Exposure Lawsuit?

Individuals who lived or worked near facilities emitting ethylene oxide (EtO) and have since been diagnosed with breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, or other serious health conditions may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

Claims are being investigated against companies responsible for toxic exposure due to uncontrolled industrial emissions, failure to implement safety measures, and misleading the public about the cancer effects of EtO.

Workers in sterilization plants, residents in high-exposure areas, and individuals with prolonged contact with EtO may have legal options.

To qualify, claimants typically need medical records confirming a diagnosis of EtO-related cancer and evidence of exposure from living or working near an affected facility.

If you’ve been exposed to ethylene oxide emissions and subsequently developed cancer or other serious health problems, you may be eligible to file an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

Use the chat feature on this page to find out if you’re eligible to file an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit instantly.

Gathering Evidence for an EtO Exposure Lawsuit

Building a strong Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit requires clear evidence and documentation linking toxic exposure to cancer effects or other serious health conditions.

Plaintiffs must provide medical records, proof of residence or employment near an EtO-emitting facility, and scientific evidence demonstrating the connection between EtO and their illness.

Legal teams also rely on regulatory violations, emission reports, and expert testimony to establish liability.

Your attorney will help to gather, retain, and organize crucial evidence for your case.

Evidence in an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit may include:

• Medical records confirming a diagnosis of breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, or other EtO-related illnesses
• Proof of residence or employment near a facility known to emit EtO
• Environmental and air quality reports showing high EtO emission levels in affected areas
• Company records and regulatory violations demonstrating failure to control emissions
• Scientific studies and government reports linking EtO exposure to cancer and other health risks
• Testimonies from expert witnesses in toxicology, epidemiology, and environmental science
• Personal statements and witness accounts detailing exposure history and health impacts

Damages in EtO Exposure Cases

In a lawsuit, damages refer to the compensation awarded to victims for the physical, financial, and emotional losses they have suffered due to another party’s negligence.

In EtO exposure cases, individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, or other serious illnesses may seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

A lawyer can help assess and calculate damages, ensuring that all economic and non-economic losses are fully accounted for in a claim.

Legal teams also consider the long-term impact of the illness, including future medical costs, disability, and diminished quality of life.

Potential damages in an Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit may include:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future cancer treatments, surgeries, medications)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity due to inability to work
• Pain and suffering from physical and emotional distress caused by cancer and treatment
• Wrongful death damages for families who lost a loved one to EtO-related illnesses
• Disability and diminished quality of life caused by long-term health complications
• Punitive damages in cases where companies acted with gross negligence in exposing the public to EtO
• Emotional distress and mental anguish from the stress of diagnosis and long-term health struggles

If you or a loved one have suffered due to EtO exposure, an experienced attorney can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact TorHoerman Law today for a free case evaluation.

TorHoerman Law: Investigating the Ethylene Oxide Lawsuit

TorHoerman Law is actively investigating claims from individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and other serious illnesses linked to ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure.

Communities near sterilization facilities have faced significant health risks due to toxic exposure. Companies responsible for emitting EtO have failed to protect workers and residents, and lawsuits are holding them accountable for the harm they have caused.

If you lived or worked near an EtO-emitting facility and later developed a related illness, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek financial compensation.

Our legal team is committed to fighting for victims and securing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

TorHoerman Law has a proven track record in environmental and toxic exposure litigation, helping individuals and families get the justice they deserve.

We offer free case evaluations to determine whether you qualify for an Ethylene Oxide Exposure Lawsuit.

There are no upfront costs—we only get paid if we win your case.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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