The College of Science, Department of chemistry organized amaster thesis defense entitled "the level of some biomarker in the blood of oil industry workers".

The scientist, Rafad Attia, has explained that the study envolved the stimation of Benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide, the level of some hormones, and the state of oxidative stress in the blood of workers in the oil industry.
The study included analyzing blood serum samples from employees at Basra refinery in the Shuaiba area and workers at gas stations and comparing them with individuals from Basra residents who do not work in an oil relating jobs, to determine the level of damage caused by the work environment around these institutions. The study showed a clear and high concentration of benzo[a]pyrene in the blood serum of workers who work in oil work environments compared to people who work in environments far from oil products. Also, decreased activity of antioxidants enzyme, TSH, FSH, and LH. In addition to AST, ALT, and ALP liver enzymes. The level of oxidative stress biomarker 8-OHdG and MDA was also decreased . The study concluded that there is a great harm to workers due to the emissions that accompany oil refining operations in refineries, in addition to the harm of workers who stand for long hours in front of gas stations. The study suggested conducting an air monitoring of air pollutants regarding emissions in these areas and measuring their concentration in Basra governorate, because they may be very harmful in the future and may be a reason for a large increase in the incidence of cancerous tumors among workers and among the residents of Basrah