PAHs: Cancer Causing Agents

Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons are heavily common environmental pollutants. These compounds are distributed around the world in air currents and can be found in water, air, and soil. PAHs are released by industrial plant dump sites and incomplete combustion of coal, oil, gas, wood, garbage, and tobacco. PAHs are released from petroleum and shale refineries that convert coal into gaseous fuel. The pollutants are also found in rivers and lakes. They attach to sediments and then are incorporated into fresh water muscles before making their way up the food chain.
The major cause of lung cancer is cigarette smoke inhalation which contain PAHs. Cigarette smoke will cause lung cancer. It is speculated that longer periods of PAH exposure leads to harmful health effects. PAHs may be attached to dust or ash causing lung irritation. Also, skin contact with PAHs may cause redness, blistering. PAH's are shown to cause lung/skin cancer and lung tumors in laboratory animals. A PAH can also lead to reproductive problems in laboratory animals. A person’s lungs, liver, skin, and kidneys can be damaged by exposure.