Determination of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and the Metabolites in Human Breast Milk

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the residues of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their metabolites in human breast milk of the general population from the study area in central of Iran. Methods: Fifty-three breast milk samples were obtained from lactating mothers with written informed consent. Sixteen PAH compounds and five metabolites were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Results: The mean PAHs concentration of all samples ranged from 1.1 to 28.88 ng/g milk fat. The mean of ∑ 16 PAHs in the entire samples was 92.80 ng/g milk fat. The mean of five monohydroxy PAHs (OH-PAHs) concentration in all samples ranged from 187.79 to 1301.74 ng/l. Conclusion: The findings showed that seven PAHs, including acenaphthylene, fluorene, anthracene, fluoranthene, pyrene, benzo (a) pyrene, and indeno (1,2,3-cd) pyrene, were detected in more than 40 samples. Naphthalene was the most frequently detected PAH and was found in all samples. This study highlights the urgent need to address PAH pollution and exposure during the pregnancy and breastfeeding period of women. © 2026 International Journal of Environmental Health Engineering.