Prenatal urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites, global DNA methylation in cord blood, and birth outcomes: A cohort study in China

Highlights: • Associations of prenatal PAH exposure with birth outcomes and DNA methylation were examined. • Prenatal exposure to certain PAHs was associated with lower birth length. • Prenatal exposure to certain PAHs was associated with decreased global DNA methylation. • Global DNA methylation did not mediate the associations of prenatal PAH exposure with birth outcomes. Prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is a potential risk factor for adverse birth outcomes. Epigenetic mechanisms may play a key role in which PAHs exert its effects.