Where It Comes From
Vehicle and industrial emissions, wildfires, coal tar and soot, tobacco smoke, and charred or smoked foods. [1][3]
How You Are Exposed
Breathing polluted air or smoke (including secondhand smoke), eating heavily charred meats, and skin contact with soot or coal‑tar/asphalt products. [1][3]
Why It Matters
Can damage DNA and cause tumors in animals; IARC classifies it as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). [2]
Who Is at Risk
Smokers and people exposed to secondhand smoke; workers in coke ovens, aluminum/steel production, asphalt/roofing, and diesel-heavy jobs; people who heat/cook with wood or coal or live near heavy traffic/industry. [1][3]
How to Lower Your Exposure
Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke; limit charred/smoked foods; use ventilation and cleaner fuels; maintain stoves/engines; avoid heavy smoke; wash off soot; follow workplace controls and wear PPE. [1][3]