SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 8, 2014 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Due to their inability to afford needed medical care, a number of response workers who aided in the cleanup of the massive 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico went long periods without health evaluations. According to the BP Gulf Oil Spill Help Desk, thousands of workers sustained injuries during the cleanup process, particularly from exposure to toxins from crude oil and the chemical dispersants used in the effort.

Gulf Oil Spill Health Hazards

Exposure to chemicals in crude oil and dispersants can occur through skin contact, inhalation of contaminated air or soil/sand, and ingestion of contaminated water or food. These can occur simultaneously.

For more information about Gulf oil spill health hazards, please visit http://www.sciencecorps.org/crudeoilhazards.htm

Many response workers were excluded from funded groups that have been compensated for damages or injuries by BP, and left without the means to pay for the cost of needed treatment for their conditions. A number of these individuals still have health problems today that have worsened over time.

Link Between Oil Spill Exposure and Hematologic, Hepatic Toxicity

"A new study reports that workers exposed to crude oil and dispersants used during the Gulf oil spill cleanup display significantly altered blood profiles, liver enzymes, and somatic symptoms compared to an unexposed control group."

For more information about oil spill exposure, please visit http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/09/130917090305.htm

The serious nature of the problems for oil spill cleanup workers who need medical attention are now being addressed by attorneys and health groups seeking compensation for them. A proposed settlement is under review for workers who have yet to receive compensation for damages they sustained from their participation in cleanup efforts, primarily those with serious medical needs.

The BP Gulf Oil Spill Help Desk has information available about how response workers that participated in the 2010 spill cleanup may be able to receive compensation from the proposed settlement if approved. Those who contact this resource can also receive help assessing current available medical and legal options. Individuals can contact the help desk today to request a free case review.

For related articles on the BP Oil Spill from Life Care 123 LLC, please visit: http://disasters.lifecare123.com/news.

Media Contact: Greg A. Vigna, M.D., J.D., Life Care 123 LLC, 415-814-1914, lyn@submitmypressrelease.com

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SOURCE Life Care 123 LLC

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