Persistent organic compounds in the environment their impact on human health: A review

Globally the organic contaminants are most widespread persistent organic compounds (POPs). The POPs include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated di benzo -p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, antimicrobials, etc.  The PAHs are generated by incomplete combustion of coal, diesel, coal tar pitch, tobacco; volcanic eruption and motor vehicle exhaust, etc.; the polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCCDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans   (PCDFs) are introduced in the environment via agricultural applications, industrial waste, household wastes. Major exposure routes to the POPs for humans are via inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact. These contaminants are deposited in marine, freshwater ecosystem and food chain and have adverse effects on organisms and human health. Some of these chemicals have mutagenic and/or carcinogenic properties. In this review methods of the removal of the PAHs have also been discussed.