<p>Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are ubiquitous occurring in the environment, they originate from various sources such as fossil fuels and combustion products, and some of them display toxic effects. Here, we review polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with emphasis on their sources and fate, environmental parameters based on their ratios, toxicity, socioeconomic impact of marine pollution, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in bivalves of the Back Sea, including Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, and Russia. We observe that petrogenic pollution dominates in most regions, with phenanthrene being the predominant compound. Elevated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon levels were observed near major shipping routes, ports, and industrial zones, particularly along Turkey’s coast, the Constanța area in Romania, and Odessa in Ukraine. Lower contamination levels were recorded in less industrialized areas such as Bulgaria. Seasonal variations indicate higher polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon concentrations during warmer months, likely influenced by increased recreational and shipping activities. Carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons accounted for a substantial proportion of total pollutants in some areas, posing risks to marine biota and human health. While western and southern regions exhibit moderate to severe contamination, the eastern Black Sea remains understudied.</p>