The persistence, potential for bioaccumulation, mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) make them environmental hazards of concern. This study evaluated the human health risks of PAHs in processed seafood obtained from the waters of coastal communities of the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Twenty-four (24) Oreochromis niloticus and twenty-four (24) mugil cephalus samples were collected from four locations and analysed using gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection (GC-FID). Human health risk assessment was conducted using two approaches: margin of exposure (MOE) for BaP, PAH4, and PAH8, and cancer risk (CR) based on the total of 16 priority USEPA PAHs. The concentrations of 16PAHs varied across species and sites. Higher values were observed in smoked samples, indicating that thermal processing significantly enhanced PAH formation. Diagnostic ratios of Ant/(Ant+Phe), Flt/(Flt+Pyr), BaA/(BaA+Chr), and ΣLMW/ΣHMW revealed mixed pyrogenic and petrogenic sources, reflecting contributions from both oil-related discharges and combustion during traditional fish smoking. Mean MOE values were markedly below the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) benchmark of 10,000. The children were more vulnerable than adults due to higher exposure per their body weight. Estimated CR values, particularly at Akiama and Orosikiri, exceeded the USEPA acceptable range (10⁻⁶–10⁻⁴), indicating potential carcinogenic concern from chronic seafood consumption. The study concludes that PAH contamination in seafood from the Niger Delta arises from both environmental pollution and processing activities, posing a tangible public health risk. Adoption of cleaner seafood-smoking technologies and stricter environmental regulations is recommended to safeguard consumer health and ensure seafood safety in the region.
