| Description | Circumstances of exposure | Tumour sites (or types) for which there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans |
|---|---|---|
| Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are substances formed during incomplete combustion of organic material. The most widely investigated PAH is benzo[a]pyrene. |
Major sources of PAHs in ambient air include:
Sources of PAHs in the diet include:
PAHs are also present in a few pharmaceutical products based on coal tar that are applied to the skin. |
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- How relevant are chemical cancer-causing substances in the workplace and in the general environment?
- Which are the most important chemical substances in the environment that may cause cancer, and which cancers do they cause?
- Is there adequate control of cancer-causing chemical substances in the environment? Am I adequately protected?
- Is there any “safe dose” of exposure to cancer-causing chemical substances?
- What actions can I take to protect myself and my family?
- I have heard about other chemical substances, such as those present in some plastics that may cause cancer. Should I be concerned?
- Should I be concerned if I live in or close to an industrial area?
- In which occupations is there an increased cancer risk, and which are the most important types of cancers?
- Do chemical substances in the workplace interact with one another or with lifestyle factors?
- How do I know whether my cancer is caused by chemical substances in the workplace?
- Is there adequate control of workplace cancer-causing substances, and what actions can I take to protect myself and my family?
- Is it possible to implement cancer prevention and health promotion measures in the workplace?
- Does stress at work cause cancer?