Document 3exZ8BOrZ9VyO3Do73nEZBXvJ

Shanghai Benzene Health Study In 1997, the National Cancer Institute released a study of workers in China, which implicated benzene exposure to Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, (NHL). Previously, benzene exposure had been linked only to AML, acute myelogenous leukemia. The NCI study also showed development of AML at lower exposure levels than previously known. Shell is participating in a consortium of companies (including ExxonMobil, BP, ChevronTexaco, Conoco) to fund a 5-year study in Shanghai that will look at (1) a prospective epidemiology study, (2) a benzene poisoning disease progression study, and (3) a molecular biomarkers study. Bioethicists have reviewed the study. An independent scientific panel has reviewed the protocols. The study will be a cooperative effort between the consortium, Dr. Richard Irons and Dr. Otto Wong, the principal investigators, in the U.S. and Fudan University School of Medicine, government agencies and hospitals in Shanghai. Shell has committed $3MM to the $23MM project. Shell is sponsoring the project because we believe it is important to understand the hazards of the products we make and sell, it supports our product stewardship program and sustainable development, and it is the right thing to do given Shell's investment in Nanhai. SH ELL-MCCLU RG-065208