PAH

PAH or Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are a class of chemicals that occur naturally in coal, crude oil, and gasoline. They are also produced when coal, oil, gas, wood, garbage, and tobacco are burned. PAHs generated from these sources can bind to or form small particles in the air. High-temperature cooking will form PAHs in meat and in other foods.

Health Effects

Exposure to PAHs can have several health effects. Short term exposure to high levels of PAHs can cause eye irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and confusion. Long term exposure can lead to cataracts, kidney and liver damage, and jaundice. Some PAHs have been identified as carcinogenic.

Exposure

People are primarily exposed to PAHs through inhalation of air containing PAHs, skin contact with oil products, and consumption of foods or water contaminated with PAHs. PAHs can also be found in some medicines and in coffee and tea.

Prevention

Prevention of PAH exposure can be achieved by reducing the use of fossil fuels, improving the efficiency of fuel use, and controlling industrial processes that produce PAHs.

See Also

• Air pollution
• Carcinogen
• Coal
• Crude oil
• Gasoline
• Health effects
• Medicine
• Tobacco

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