Abstract
Carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are widely distributed in our environments as pyrolytic products of organic matters. Analytical works of these hydrocarbons previously published were reviewed and their significance for human carcinogenesis was discussed. There is no absolute proof yet that these carcinogenic hydrocarbons are carcinogenic to man. In view of the dose-response relationship of the carcinogens and of the factors affecting it, however, it seems reasonable to consider that materials containing these hydrocarbons, even minute in amount, can be potent carcinogens for man. Thus, ordinary wisdom indicates the desirability of minimizing or eliminating all sources of carcinogenic polycylic hycrocarbons from out environment.
