Where It Comes From
Past manufacturing/use of PCNs; old equipment/buildings; byproducts from waste incineration, metal production, and open burning; long‑lasting residues in soil, sediments, and food chains [1][2][3].
How You Are Exposed
Eating contaminated fish/animal fats; breathing or swallowing dust near sources; skin contact with old oils or materials; infants can be exposed via breast milk from highly exposed mothers [1][3].
Why It Matters
OCN can harm the liver and skin (chloracne) and may affect the immune system, thyroid, and development; some PCNs caused liver tumors in animals; human cancer evidence is limited [1][3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in waste incineration, metal recycling/smelting, e‑waste, or demolition; people living near contaminated sites; those who eat a lot of locally caught contaminated fish; infants of exposed mothers [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow local fish advisories; avoid open burning; reduce home dust (wet‑wipe/HEPA); wash hands before eating; handle old electrical/industrial materials carefully; employers should use ventilation, PPE, and hygiene practices [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Polychlorinated Naphthalenes (PCNs). Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov
- [2]U.S. EPA. Polychlorinated Naphthalenes (PCNs) Action Plan Summary. https://www.epa.gov
- [3]WHO/IPCS. Environmental Health Criteria 34: Chlorinated Naphthalenes. https://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc034.htm