Dow(US:DOW) Prnewswire·2024-07-24 14:12Core Viewpoint - A lawsuit has been filed against Dow Chemical, Union Carbide, Bayer Crop Science, and other companies, alleging that prolonged exposure to ethylene oxide has caused cancer in a Charleston resident, Cathy Darlene Flint [1][2]. Group 1: Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit claims that Cathy Flint developed multiple myeloma, an incurable cancer, after decades of inhaling ethylene oxide gas from a nearby Union Carbide plant [2]. - The lawsuit is led by prominent environmental attorney Stuart Calwell and his firm, Calwell Luce diTrapano PLLC [2][3]. - Defendants include major companies involved in the production and use of ethylene oxide, as well as healthcare systems that allegedly released the gas during medical equipment sterilization [3][7]. Group 2: Health Risks of Ethylene Oxide - Ethylene oxide is classified as a known human carcinogen by the EPA, WHO, and other health organizations, with recognized adverse effects including DNA mutations and blood cancers [4]. - The chemical is odorless and colorless, making it undetectable for residents, who may have been exposed without their knowledge [4][5]. - The area around Flint's home is identified in the 95th to 100th percentile for Air Toxics Cancer Risks according to the EPA Environmental Justice Screening and Mapping Tool [5]. Group 3: Allegations of Negligence - The lawsuit alleges that defendants engaged in unfiltered venting of ethylene oxide directly into local communities, despite the availability of emission control technologies [6]. - Flint seeks damages for the health impacts of this pollution and aims to achieve justice for other affected residents [6]. Group 4: Attorney Background - Stuart Calwell has a notable history in toxic-poisoning cases, including a $100 million settlement against Monsanto for dioxin contamination and a $151 million settlement against West Virginia American Water for water supply poisoning [7].