Where It Comes From
traffic emissions, residential wood/coal stoves, industrial processes (asphalt, coke ovens), wildfires, tobacco smoke, and charred or smoked foods [1][2][4].
How You Are Exposed
breathing polluted outdoor/indoor air, eating heavily charred meats, or skin contact with contaminated soil/soot or used oils. PAHs stick to fine particles and dust [1][2][4].
Why It Matters
PAHs can damage DNA; long-term exposure to PAH mixtures increases cancer risk. Some PAHs are confirmed carcinogens (e.g., benzo[a]pyrene). Studies also link PAH exposure with respiratory symptoms and potential developmental effects [1][2][3].
Who Is at Risk
people near heavy traffic or industry; users of wood stoves; smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke; certain workers (asphalt/roofing, foundries, firefighting); pregnant people and young children [1][2][4].
How to Lower Your Exposure
avoid smoke; ventilate cooking and avoid charring; maintain stoves/engines; check air quality and filter indoor air; wash hands after contact with soot/soil; follow workplace protections [1][2][4].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs).
- [2]WHO. Air Quality Guidelines: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
- [3]IARC Monographs, Some Non-heterocyclic PAHs and Related Exposures.
- [4]EPA. Technical Fact Sheet – Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs).