Oil Refinery Release of Pollutants in Human and Animal Health: The Case of Priolo (Eastern Sicily) Oil Refinery

Oil refineries have been investigated in several studies focused on soil and water pollution in proximity of refinery plants, as we reported recently for the Augusta-Priolo area (Eastern Sicily). The present study is aimed at evaluating the effects on human and animal health related to residence nearby refinery plants. Material and Methods: A literature search was effected in PubMed, and in our previous archives combining “oil refinery”, “health” and “disease”, building an overall database. Results: Multiple evidence was found related to residence nearby oil refineries, or occupational exposure and affecting human health, including genetic defects and cancer. Further literature was found relating the exposure to oil refinery pollution vs. multiple adverse effects in several biota, including animals along with other exposed biota