Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in breast adipose tissue and their association with breast cancer and demographic factors: A case-control study in Iranian women

• Breast adipose PAH levels were significantly higher in cancer patients than in controls. • Demographic factors strongly influenced PAH accumulation in breast tissue. • Parity and employment status were linked to both PAH burden and cancer risk. • Age was positively correlated with PAH levels but inversely related to cancer risk. • Findings highlight the role of environmental and social determinants in breast cancer. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are carcinogenic environmental pollutants that may accumulate in hormone-sensitive tissues such as the breast. This study aimed to quantify PAH concentrations in breast adipose tissue and evaluate their association with breast cancer risk, while also examining how demographic factors influence PAH burden among Iranian women. A hospital-based case–control design was applied, involving 98 breast cancer patients and 98 non-cancer controls undergoing cosmetic breast surgery. PAHs were quantified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and demographic data were gathered via structured interviews. PAH concentrations were significantly higher in cancer patients. Demographic variables such as age, parity, employment, and education were significantly associated with PAH levels. Parity correlated with higher PAH burden but lower cancer risk, likely due to pregnancy-induced protective mechanisms. Homemakers showed both higher exposure and greater cancer risk, potentially reflecting increased indoor pollution and reduced access to protective behaviors. While PAH levels increased with age, cancer risk was inversely related, possibly due to hormonal changes after menopause. These findings suggest a dual role of environmental exposures and social determinants in breast cancer susceptibility. Public health strategies focusing on indoor air quality, clean cooking practices, and environmental health education are essential, especially for vulnerable populations.