Health effects of radon exposure

Article Abstract:

Radon is a nearly ubiquitous radioactive gas that has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, after exposure to significant levels. The Environmental Protection Agency is conducting studies to determine what levels of radon in the home should be considered dangerous. The bulk of the evidence that shows an increased risk of lung cancer with radon exposure comes from uranium miners, who have prolonged exposure to high levels of the gas and its radioactive decay products. Most of the data thus far show a greater risk to miners who smoke than to those who do not. Extrapolating these data to radon exposure in the home is controversial, in that the methods of detecting radon in the home are often inaccurate, and the degree of risk varies with the degree of exposure (those who spend the greater part of their time away from home have less risk than those who are generally homebound). Despite the problems in determining the exact risk from radon exposure in the home, as estimate was made that anywhere from 5,000 to 20,000 deaths from lung cancer annually may be attributed to radon exposure. What percentage of these victims are also smokers is unknown. Physicians should understand the risks of radon exposure, advise their patients accordingly, and should always emphasize the far greater risk of lung cancer from cigarette smoking, when counselling their patients about radon. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects

---

More radon affected premises

Article Abstract:

Radon measurements by the NRPB (National Radiological Protection Board) taken in 1992 in the UK, show that parts of Derbyshire, Somerset and all of Northamptonshire are affected. The NRPB measurements were accepted by the government in 1990. Any area over 1% more than the level of 200 becquerels per cubic metre of radon is officially affected. Radon is a natural radioactive gas leaked from uranium in rocks. It accumulates in buildings where the ventilation is bad, causing lung cancer. Employers have a duty of care to minimise exposure to employees.

Research, United Kingdom. National Radiological Protection Board

---

Intercomparison of retrospective radon detectors

Article Abstract:

Two methods of glass-based retrospective radon detection are compared and evaluated. Both methods were found to yield equitable results, producing similar track densities.

United States, Evaluation, Detection equipment, Detectors

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Lead exposure and conventional and ambulatory blood pressure: a prospective population study. In utero exposure to phenobarbital and intelligence deficits in adult men
• Abstracts: The wealth of nations: knowledge as a national response. How to balance financial security, emotional needs
• Abstracts: Someone to watch over me. The agony and the ecstasy. Someone to turn to

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.