What do PAHs do to the body?

What You Need to Know About PAHs and Your Health

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs, are a group of chemicals formed during the incomplete burning of coal, oil, gas, wood, or even tobacco and garbage. These substances are more than just byproducts of smoke—they’re found in high concentrations at old industrial sites, especially former coal-gasification plants, where decades of contamination can linger in soil and air.

When you breathe in smoke from wildfires, grills, or vehicle exhaust, or when you come into direct contact with polluted soil, you're potentially being exposed to PAHs. For people living near contaminated sites or working in certain industrial jobs, the risk increases significantly.

Long-term exposure has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly in the lungs and skin, depending on the route of exposure. But cancer isn’t the only concern. These chemicals can also affect vital organs—studies suggest that certain PAHs may harm the liver and kidneys, disrupting their ability to filter toxins. There’s also evidence they can cause irritation and damage to the eyes, especially with direct contact.

While low-level exposure is common and often unavoidable, minimizing contact—especially in high-risk environments—can make a difference. Simple steps like washing hands after handling soil, using protective gear in contaminated areas, and improving indoor air quality can help reduce risk.

As research continues, one thing is clear: PAHs are more than just invisible pollutants. They’re a quiet health concern that deserves attention, especially in urban and industrial communities where exposure lingers long after the smoke clears.