Eye contact can cause redness and itching as well as swelling of eye lids. Sometimes an eye allergy develops. If this occurs, even very small future exposure can cause these symptoms. Skin contact can cause irritation and even burns. There is some evidence that it causes lung cancer in humans and it has been shown to cause bone cancer in animals.
Many scientists believe there is no safe level of exposure to a carcinogen.
Such substances may also have the potential for causing reproductive damage in humans. According to the information presently available to the New Jersey Department of Health, Beryllium Oxide has not been tested for its ability to adversely affect reproduction. A single high exposure or repeated lower exposures can cause permanent scars in the lungs and other body organs. Symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, weight loss and poor appetite. These effects may occur months or years after exposure.