The credo “cancer is a disease of genes” has evolved over the past decades. The epidemiological studies and other studies reveal that environmental factors contribute a lot the carcinogenicity and it is here the role of chemical carcinogens comes into play. The association of cancer with exposure to polyaromatic hydrocarbons has been a matter of concern for a long time. The present review outlines major concerns associated with polyaromatic hydrocarbons in the environment, their effect on human health, their toxicity, and their removal. We have discussed the effect of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on the environment along with their important sources of production. The classification of these polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons is provided based on their natural occurrence and anthropogenic sources. The effect of PAHs on the human body is further discussed in detail. At the last, we have discussed the different methodologies which are being employed for the removal of PAHs.