International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations
BENZO(e)PYRENE
VOL.: 3 (1973) (p. 137)
5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation
5.1 Animal carcinogenicity data
The data are confined to two skin painting experiments in mice in
which benzo(e)pyrene evoked a weaker response than either benzo(a)pyrene or
dibenz(a,h)anthracene. Benzo(e)pyrene does not appear to be an initiator of
skin carcinogenesis in mice. It has not been tested by other routes
in the mouse or in other species.
5.2 Human carcinogenicity data
No case reports or epidemiological studies on the significance of
benzo(e)pyrene exposure to man are available. However, coal-tar and other
materials which are known to be carcinogenic to man may contain benzo(e)pyrene.
The substance has also been detected in other environmental
situations. The possible contribution of polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons from some environmental sources to the overall
carcinogenic risk to man is discussed in the General Remarks.
Subsequent evaluations: Vol. 32 (1983); Suppl. 7 (1987) (p. 58: Group 3)
For definition of Groups, see Preamble Evaluation.
Last updated: 16 March 1998