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Investigating the Concentration and Health Risks of Particulate-Bound Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Isfahan’S Ambient Air; [بررسی غلظت و خطر سلامتی هیدروکربن های آروماتیک چند حلقه ای باند شده به ذرات معلق در هوایآزاد شهر اصفهان]



Ghodsi S1 ; Sheikh M1 ; Mohammadi F1 ; Nikaeen M1
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Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

Source: Iranian Journal of Health and Environment Published:2024

Abstract

Background and Objective: The adverse health effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have received significant attention in recent years. This study aimed to measure the concentration of PAHs associated with fine particles and assess the health risks posed by these compounds. Materials and Methods: A total of 38 air samples were collected from the central part of Isfahan city using a particle sampler equipped with an inlet to capture particles smaller than 2.5 µm (PM2.5). The samples were analyzed using GC-MS, and molecular ratios were used to identify potential sources of PAHs. Additionally, a Monte Carlo simulation was employed to perform a probabilistic risk assessment of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects of PAHs for two groups: children and adults. Results: Out of the 16 priority PAH compounds, seven compounds were identified, with average concentrations ranging from 0.003 to 17.8 ng/m3. Molecular ratios indicated that pyrogenic sources were the main contributors to PAHs in the air. The median carcinogenic risk for children and adults was estimated to be 3.1×10-8 and 5.99×10-8, respectively. The median non-carcinogenic risk for PAH compounds was estimated at 3.08×10-1. Conclusion: The probabilistic risk assessment revealed that the PAHs concentrations associated with fine particles do not pose a significant risk to exposed individuals. However, it is important to note that this study focused solely on the risk assessment of PAHs associated with fine particles. A comprehensive risk assessment of all PAHs present in the atmosphere is, therefore, recommended. Copyright © 2024 Iranian Association of Environmental Health, and Tehran University of Medical Sciences.
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