Chronic myelogenous leukemia and benzene exposure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the case–control literature☆

Abstract Benzene exposure is well demonstrated as a cause of acute myelogenous leukemia, but not of chronic myelogenous leukemia. Previous literature reviews based on case series and cohort studies have not shown an association. We have now conducted a literature search for case–control studies that examine the association between benzene exposure and chronic myelogenous leukemia. Six case–control studies have been found. These derive from occupational groups, cancer registries, and a clinical laboratory. Their exposure ascertainments are all based on job histories, job-exposure matricies, or industrial hygiene data. The odds ratios (ORs) for individual studies range from 0.73 to 1.2. The pooled OR is 1.003 with 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.94–1.07 ( p  = 0.98) for both a fixed effects model and a random effects model. The case–control literature indicates that chronic myelogenous leukemia does not appear to be related to benzene exposure.