Hexachlorobenzene was widely used as a pesticide to protect the seeds of onions and sorghum, wheat, and other grains against
fungus until 1965. It was also used to make
fireworks, ammunition, and synthetic rubber. Currently, hexachlorobenzene is not used commercially in the United States.
Hexachlorobenzene is a white crystalline solid, that does not occur naturally in the environment. It is formed as a by-product during the manufacture of other chemicals. Small amounts can also be produced during combustion of municipal waste.
Exposure to hexachlorobenzene occurs primarily from eating low levels in
contaminated food. Much lower exposures can occur from drinking water and breathing air contaminated with hexachlorobenzene. The main health effect from eating highly contaminated food is a
liver disease. Hexachlorobenzene has been found in at least 106 of the 1,613 National Priorities List
sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
See a doctor if you have been harmed by this substance. In addition, it
may be important to
contact an attorney who
can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there
may be
timelimits within which you must commence suit.
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Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
See Also
- Toxic & Hazardous Substances
- Blood Disorders: Overview
- Bone, Joint & Muscle Disorders: Overview
- Cancer
- Digestive Disorders: Overview
- Head, Spinal Cord, Brain & Nerve Disorders: Overview
- Immune Disorders
- Information on Arthritis
- Kidney & Urinary Tract Disorders
- Liver Problems
- Seizures: Overview
- Skin Disorders: Overview
- Hexachlorobenzene:Frequently Asked Questions