Which of the following is a common risk associated with benzene exposure?

Benzene exposure is associated with a range of health risks, and one of the most significant concerns is its impact on bone marrow. Benzene is known to be a hematotoxic substance, meaning that it can adversely affect blood formation and the production of blood cells, which originates in the bone marrow. Chronic exposure to benzene can lead to conditions such as aplastic anemia, where bone marrow fails to produce adequate levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. This condition can severely compromise the immune system and increase the risk of infections and bleeding.

While other options like respiratory illness, skin irritation, and vision loss may be associated with various chemical exposures, they are not specifically linked to benzene in the same way bone marrow damage is. Understanding the risk of bone marrow damage is crucial for anyone who may be worked amongst benzene or exposed in an occupational setting because of the serious long-term health implications associated with such exposure.