When it comes to EtO exposure, Sterigenics is the company most people are familiar with. However, locations that use ethylene oxide are scattered around the country.
Many exposed to toxic EtO gas have developed various cancers, including leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or breast cancer.
The first lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Illinois resident Susan Kamuda. Since then, litigation has expanded, and more and more victims are seeking justice.
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April 1, 2026 – EPA Holds Public Hearing on Proposed Changes to EtO Regulations
The EPA held a public hearing to solicit comments on the proposed EtO emissions regulations. It is currently reviewing the 2024 regulations that saw restrictions on the commercial use of EtO.
March 13, 2026 – EPA Proposes Changes to EtO Policies
The EPA announced a proposal to change the EtO regulations put in place in 2024. The regulations required some companies to significantly reduce EtO emissions. However, the regulations did not give companies enough time to enact change or find comparable alternatives. The EPA wants to give companies more time, but many are worried the regulations aren’t strict enough.
February 26, 2026 – US Chemical Safety Board Publishes Report
The US Chemical Safety Board published a report on the 2023 explosion at the Dow facility in Louisiana. The incident occurred when EtO entered a pipe and kicking off a chain reaction that led to more explosions. This resulted in more than 32,000 pounds of EtO entering the air. Those living near the facility or working in it are starting to file lawsuits because they were not warned about the hazard.
January 9, 2026 – PA Court Denies Request to Create Class for People Living Near EtO Facility
A Pennsylvania judge declined to create a class for people living near the B. Braun plant in Allentown. The creation of a class would have allowed for a class action lawsuit to move forward.
December 22, 2025 – Scientists Publish Recommendations About Texas Ethylene Oxide Policies
The National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine formed a committee to review the Texas findings, recommendations, and regulations about EtO.
December 2, 2025 – EtO Exposure Linked to Aging Hormone
Researchers have found that some people exposed to EtO had lower levels of klotho, an anti-aging hormone naturally created by the body.
November 17, 2025 – Ten New Cases From Puerto Rico
Ten residents from Puerto Rico have sued six facilities that use EtO to sterilize medical equipment. The suit claims they were not warned about the presence of EtO in the air.
October 17, 2025 – Trinity Sterile Allowed to Ignore EtO Emission Rules
Trinity Sterile, based in Salisbury, MD, is not required to follow the safety regulations.
October 2, 2025 – Laredo Ethylene Oxide Facility Poisoning Air Near Schools
Midwest Sterilization Corporation in Laredo, TX, has allowed EtO to spread in the air for over a decade. Children in the area have developed cancers at an alarming rate. The facility is under investigation and has until 2026 to comply with new safety regulations.
September 3, 2025 – More Lawsuits Filed Against Eastman Chemical
Eight new cases have been filed against Eastman Chemical Corporation in Longview, TX. Five of the people filing suit lived within four miles or less of the plant and have developed breast cancer. They allege the cancer came from EtO exposure.
September 16, 2025 – West Virginia Case Allowed to Proceed
A federal appeals court has allowed Lee Ann Sommerville’s case against Union Carbide Corporation and Covestro, LLC in South Charleston, WV, to proceed. A previous court had dismissed her case, saying she did not meet ht technical requirements to sue. However, the federal court has overturned that decision.
September 2, 2025 – Fort Myers Plant Under Investigation
American Contract Systems in Fort Myers, FL, is under investigation for releasing EtO into the air. Several residents have developed papillary thyroid cancer and allege it is due to the facility’s EtO emissions.
August 1, 2025 – Allentown, PA, Residents Sue B. Braun
Sixteen people in Allentown, PA, have filed suit against B. Braun. The plaintiffs have all developed some form of cancer related to EtO exposure.
July 2, 2025 – Willowbrook High School Teachers Sue Sterigenics
Six former teachers from Hinsdale South High School in Willowbrook, IL, have filed suit against Sterigenics.
June 17, 2025 – Steris Corporation Reaches $48 Million Settlement
The Steris Corporation has reached a $48 million settlement over EtO exposure. The lawsuits were related to the plant in Waukegan, IL, that operated from 2002-2008.
June 10, 2025 – Texas Resident Files Suit Against Eastman Chemical Company
Several residents of Longview, TX, have filed lawsuits against Eastman Chemical Company. They allege their breast cancer diagnosis was due to EtO exposure.
May 6, 2025 – Georgia Man Awarded $20 Million
A jury in Gwinnett County, GA, has awarded a retired truck driver $20 million in a lawsuit against C.R. Bard. Bard owned a plant in Covington, GA. The plaintiff alleged EtO caused his non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
January 10, 2023 – Sterigenics Agrees to Pay $408 Million to Settle Lawsuits
Sterigenics has announced a settlement related to its Willowbrook facility. This will settle 870 lawsuits.
September 19, 2022 – Chicago Jury Awards $363 Million to Plaintiff
A Chicago jury has ordered Sterigenics to pay Susan Kamuda $363 million. Kamuda alleged that exposure to EtO caused her cancer.
It’s never too late to fight for your rights. Contact us today to explore your options if you have been diagnosed with cancer due to exposure to ethylene oxide.
Our team of experienced litigators specializes in cases related to cancer exposure and has a proven track record of success. We care about you and your family, and we hold responsible parties accountable. Your fight is our fight.