Health risk assessment of PAHs and heavy metal levels in periwinkles (Pachymelania fusca mutans) and crabs (Scylla serrata) consumed in crude oil-contaminated coastal regions of Southern Nigeria

for crabs. TEQ values were 0.12874 mg/kg for periwinkles and 0.15646 mg/kg for crabs. Deduction from PAH4 index exceeded the permissible limit set by the European Union. TEQ values indicate that periwinkles were below the screening value (SV) of 0.0389 mg/kg, while crabs exceeded it. The ECR for the shellfish was also found to be within the acceptable risk level. All HMs were within EPA permissible limits except cadmium (Cd). HQ indicated potential health risks from crab consumption, while CRA showed no carcinogenic risk from either shellfish. The study recommends that if crude oil pollution in coastal areas continues, severe health implications will be inevitable. Therefore, it is crucial to implement measures to mitigate pollution levels and monitor seafood safety regularly to protect public health.