Randomized trial detects PAHs from jet fuel in lung cancer tissue, suggesting a link to exposure from 9/11.
Key Points
To investigate the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in lung cancer tissues of individuals exposed to a toxic plume from the World Trade Center disaster.
Analyzed lung cancer tissue specimens from World Trade Center responders for PAH content.
Correlated PAH presence with exposure to jet fuel and other carcinogens.
Investigated combustion temperatures to differentiate sources of carcinogens.
Identified burned PAH in the center of lung cancer tissue, indicating exposure to jet fuel.
Supported the hypothesis that jet fuel, JA-1, contributes to lung cancer development relative to other carcinogens.
Demonstrated combustion temperature of PAH at 300°C, differing from typical tobacco combustion.