Cancer Risk Assessment of Benzene and Ethylbenzene in Urban Air Pollution: A Case Study of Mashhad, Iran

Urban air pollution, particularly from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and ethylbenzene, represents a considerable health hazard. This study evaluated the concentration of BTEX compounds in Mashhad, Iran, with a specific focus on cancer risk. Twelve sampling sites were selected across five zones, and air samples were collected three times daily using the NIOSH ۱۵۰۱ method. The findings revealed elevated benzene and ethylbenzene concentrations at specific locations, which consequently elevated the cancer risk. The mean citywide cancer risk was ۴.۰۲*۱۰^-۳, with benzene contributing significantly to this elevated risk. To mitigate the risks identified, it is necessary to implement stricter vehicle emissions and industrial regulations. Continuous monitoring and public health campaigns are essential to ensure the efficacy of these measures. This study provides valuable insights into the distribution of cancer risk in Mashhad, which will inform the improvement of urban air quality.

کلیدواژه ها:

Carcinogenic Risk ، volatile organic compounds ، BTEX