Which chemical is known for being produced in large quantities in the U.S. and has links to leukemia?

Benzene is known for being produced in large quantities in the U.S. and has significant links to leukemia, particularly acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This correlation is primarily due to benzene's status as a well-documented carcinogen, with multiple studies establishing exposure to benzene as a risk factor for developing various forms of blood cancer. Benzene is a common industrial chemical found in products such as gasoline, as well as in the manufacturing of plastics and synthetic fibers.

The production levels in the U.S. are quite substantial, with benzene utilized extensively in chemical manufacturing and as a solvent in the petrochemical industry. Its high production volume increases the likelihood of exposure for workers in relevant industries and populations living near industrial sites.

Other chemicals mentioned, while also hazardous and linked to certain health risks, do not have the same level of direct correlation with leukemia as benzene does. For example, formaldehyde is known for its association with nasopharyngeal cancer and other health issues, acrylonitrile is associated with various forms of cancer but is not primarily linked to leukemia, and vinyl chloride is mainly connected to liver cancer. Thus, benzene stands out for its substantial production in the U.S. and its strong ties to leukemia