Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and perinatal outcomes: a scoping review.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are generated during the incomplete combustion of carbon-based materials and have been identified as mutagenic, teratogenic, carcinogenic, and immunotoxic agents. Maternal exposure to PAHs via inhalation, occupational exposures, dietary intake, or dermal absorption has been linked to an elevated risk of infertility, spontaneous abortion and preterm birth. PAHs can cross the placenta, potentially leading to adverse fetal outcomes including growth restriction and congenital anomalies. Additionally, both prenatal and postnatal exposure to PAHs have been associated with a range of childhood disorders, including asthma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, pediatric cancers, and allergic conditions. The objective of this scoping review is to provide a comprehensive overview of current evidence regarding the effects of PAH exposure on maternal, fetal, neonatal, and childhood health outcomes. IMPACT: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are hazardous organic pollutants that have been implicated in adverse maternal, fetal, neonatal and childhood outcomes. Appreciation of the mechanisms, exposure pathways, and their correlation with health outcomes can facilitate the development of informed policies and effective strategies for exposure management, prevention and/or treatment of diseases associated with PAH exposure. This scoping review summarizes current literature on the impact of PAH exposure on perinatal and childhood health outcomes.