Petroleum, Refineries, and the Future

Health Implicatons

Toxic chemicals are used in the refining process leading to health implications for those in close proximity to the refineries. According to Mark A. D’Andrea and G. Kesava of University Cancer and Diagnostic Centers, the refining industry is a major source of benzene, toluene, nitric oxides, and carbon monoxide. Exposure to benzene leads to multiple health effects including many of which affect the respiratory system, but benzene may also affect bone marrow, the liver, kidney and brain. A BP refinery in Texas City, Texas had a flaring incident between April 6, 2010 and May 16, 2010, releasing an estimate of more than 500,000 pounds of toxic chemicals with 17,000 pounds being benzene. A study was conducted showing the health implications of children in the area who were exposed to benzene. They concluded children who were exposed had significant health implications especially relating to blood disorders (D’Andrea and Reddy 1-2). People who live in close proximity to refineries have a high risk to being exposed to chemical toxins such as the children in Texas City, Texas did. Society needs to recognize the impact refineries have to the neighborhoods of the less advantaged. Often times when a person can't afford healthcare, taxpayer money will pay for the necessary treatment of the individual. Even if a person isn't affected directly by the health implications posed by refineries, one may be affected by paying for the treatment of those directly affected. 


Works Cited 

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