Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Fourteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) metabolites are examined in the National Report. Six of the chemicals are detected throughout each racial/ethnic group, one is detected in each group at the 25thth percentile, one is detected in all groups at the 75th percentile, three are detected in all groups at the 90th percentile, one is detected in one group at the 95th percentile, and two are not detected at the 95th percentile in any group.

Of the seven chemicals detected broadly enough to develop a geometric mean, the geometric mean is highest for two chemicals in Blacks and five chemicals in Whites.

Twelve chemicals are detected at the 95th percentile. Four chemicals are detected in Blacks at levels that are up to, on average, 122% greater than in Mexican-Americans and Whites. Two of the chemicals are detected in Mexican-Americans at levels that are up to, on average, 26% greater than Blacks and Whites. Six of the chemicals are found in Whites at levels that are up to, on average, 112% greater than in Mexican-Americans and Blacks. One chemical is only detected in Mexican- Americans.

PAHs are naturally-occurring chemicals that are primarily produced by the burning of coal, gasoline, oil, and wood. Environmental justice organizations have focused on exposure to PAHs from incinerators and motor vehicles. The National Report is evidence that the White population has the greatest overall exposure to PAHs and that a portion of the Black and White populations are exposed to disproportionately high levels of PAHs.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
(note - no data indicates non-detect)