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Updated: Feb 25, 2026

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Impact of placental polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons accumulation on neonatal birth outcomes

Priyanka Agarwal1, Madhu Anand2, Shikha1

  • 1Department of Chemistry, Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Drug and Chemical Toxicology
|February 24, 2026
PubMed

Insights

In-utero exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is linked to adverse infant outcomes. Higher placental PAH levels correlate with lower birth weight, height, and head circumference, indicating developmental impacts.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Toxicology
  • Reproductive Science

Background:

  • Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are known carcinogens.
  • Limited data exists on in-utero PAH exposure and adverse birth outcomes.
  • This study addresses the research gap on PAH impacts on fetal development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate placental levels of 16 USEPA Priority PAHs.
  • Assess the association between PAH exposure and infant anthropometric measures.
  • Determine health risks linked to in-utero PAH exposure.

Main Methods:

  • Collected placental tissue samples from 200 pregnant women.
  • Analyzed placental samples for 16 specific PAHs.
  • Retrieved infant anthropometric data (birth weight, height, head circumference).

Main Results:

  • Benzo(a)pyrene and Chrysene were the most prevalent PAHs.
  • Higher PAH levels, particularly chrysene and benzo(k)fluoranthene, were found in placentas of mothers with low birth weight infants.
  • PAHs showed an inverse association with infant birth height, weight, and head circumference.

Conclusions:

  • In-utero PAH exposure is associated with inadequate fetal development.
  • Environmental PAH exposure may negatively impact infant anthropometry.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the biological mechanisms of PAH effects on infants.

Keywords:
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbonsbirth outcomesbirth weightplacenta

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