Vizag Gas Leak: Short-Term and Long-Term impact of Styrene Gas

The styrene gas that leaked from LG Polymers in Vishakapatnam has killed at least Eight People so far and hospitalized 100s of people. The incident has created panic in several areas of the Port City and Disaster Response teams were pressed to evacuate the house in the surroundings.

LG Polymers set up in 1997, manufactures general-purpose polystyrene, high impact polystyrene, and colored polystyrene used in the plastic engineering industry. Experts say that the impact of Styrene will depend on the intensity of inhaling the poisonous gas. If it is more, a person could face complications in the lungs and inhaling oxygen.

It could lead to fatality due to damage to the central nervous system. Short-term exposure to styrene in humans results in mucous membrane and eye irritation, and gastrointestinal effects. Long-term exposure will lead to serious multiple complications. There are inconclusive studies that could lead to an increased frequency of spontaneous abortions and decreased frequency of births.

There are some epidemiological studies suggest there may be an association between styrene exposure and an increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma. Experts say that the Gas leak would impact more the elderly and people with respiratory problems. There are previous instances that the gas was used in chemical warfare.