Final answer:
Benzene exposure can cause aplastic anemia and increase the risk for leukemia and other blood disorders, as it is a known carcinogen linked with the harmful polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Step-by-step explanation:
Benzene is a chemical compound with many industrial uses, including the production of plastics, drugs, detergents, synthetic rubber, pesticides, and dyes. However, it is known to be harmful to human health.
Acute exposure to high levels of benzene can lead to nausea and potentially fatal respiratory or heart failure, while chronic exposure can cause aplastic anemia, which impairs bone marrow function and decreases red and white blood cell counts.
Moreover, benzene exposure increases the risk for various cancers, most notably leukemia, as well as other blood disorders. This is due to benzene being a carcinogen, which is linked to the formation of harmful substances like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) known for their carcinogenic properties.