This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the association between benzene exposure and lung cancer risk. The study searched databases up to February 10, 2023, and included 21 studies with a total of 10,750 lung cancer cases and 2,899 lung cancer deaths. The overall risk estimates for lung cancer prevalence and mortality associated with benzene exposure were 1.20 (95% CI 1.05–1.37) and 1.15 (95% CI 1.02–1.30), respectively. Heterogeneity was significant, but no publication bias was observed. When studies adjusted for smoking habits, the risk increased by up to 34%. The findings suggest a strong association between benzene exposure and lung cancer risk, highlighting the need for further research to identify the lung cancer risk associated with benzene exposure under different smoking conditions.This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the association between benzene exposure and lung cancer risk. The study searched databases up to February 10, 2023, and included 21 studies with a total of 10,750 lung cancer cases and 2,899 lung cancer deaths. The overall risk estimates for lung cancer prevalence and mortality associated with benzene exposure were 1.20 (95% CI 1.05–1.37) and 1.15 (95% CI 1.02–1.30), respectively. Heterogeneity was significant, but no publication bias was observed. When studies adjusted for smoking habits, the risk increased by up to 34%. The findings suggest a strong association between benzene exposure and lung cancer risk, highlighting the need for further research to identify the lung cancer risk associated with benzene exposure under different smoking conditions.