Strong chemical carcinogens, found in grilled meats and car exhaust, alter and damage DNA cells, sometimes leading to cancer, according to a new study reported Tuesday by the National Monitor.

Researchers at Oregon State University (OSU) have discovered new compounds produced by certain types of chemical reactions, such as those found in vehicle exhaust or grilling meat, are more than 400 times more mutagenic than known carcinogens.

The compounds were identified and examined by researchers in lab experiments that mimic the type of conditions which might be found from the combustion and exhaust in cars and trucks, or grilling meats over a flame.

Researchers said the compounds involved in the research were polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs, formed naturally as the result of almost any type of combustion, from a wood stove to an automobile engine, cigarette or a coal-fired power plant.

Many PAHs are known to be carcinogenic. In a statement, researchers hope to raise concerns about the health impacts of heavily-polluted urban air or dietary exposure.