Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a byproduct of combustion processes. They are common pollutants in oil-producing countries because fossil fuel processing generates PAHs that associate with dust. Airborne particles containing PAHs are transported into houses during dust storms, which are common in the arid oil-producing countries, and consequently the children and adults in the household are exposed to PAHs in indoor house dust. The goal of this study was to present a systematic survey of PAHs in indoor house dust in Kuwait. The PAHs concentrations and composition of indoor house dust was determined, along with their probable source and the potential carcinogenic risks. Total PAHs concentrations (ƩPAH) were, on average (±standard deviation) 1112 ± 347 μg/kg and ranged from 450 to 2242 μg/kg. Heavier congeners (4-6 ring PAHs) represented 61% of the ƩPAH. Petroleum combustion and traffic emissions were the major source of PAHs, based on the isomeric ratios of PAHs in indoor house dust. The incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCRs) of exposure to PAHs in indoor house dust was 2.23 × 10-3 (95% CI: 1.99 × 10-3 - 2.48 × 10-3) for children and 2.15 × 10-3 (95% CI: 1.94 × 10-3 - 2.37 × 10-3) for adults, exceeding the US EPA safe limit of 1 × 10-6. Therefore, exposure to PAHs present in indoor house dust increases the cancer risk for children and adults in Kuwait.
Keywords: Cancer risk; Human exposure; Indoor dust; PAHs; PAHs source apportionment.
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