Residential radon and lung cancer
- VernacularTitle:Орон байрны агаар дахь радон ба уушгины хорт хавдар
- Author:
Nyamsuren L
1
;
Erdenekhuu N
2
;
Burmaajav B
3
Author Information
1. National Center for Public Health
2. National Cancer Center of Mongolia
3. Ach Medical University
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
radon;
lung cancer;
smoke;
indoor
- From:Mongolian Medical Sciences
2024;208(2):48-55
- CountryMongolia
- Language:Mongolian
-
Abstract:
Radon is a radioactive gas that has no smell, colour or taste. Radon is produced from the natural
radioactive decay of uranium, which is found in all rocks and soils. Radon can also be found in water.
Outdoors, radon quickly dilutes to very low concentrations and is generally not a problem. The average
outdoor radon level varies from 5 Bq/m³ to 15 Bq/m³. However, radon concentrations are higher
indoors and in areas with minimal ventilation, with highest levels found in places like mines, caves
and water treatment facilities. In buildings such as homes, schools, offices, radon levels can vary
substantially from 10 Bq/m³ to more than 10 000 Bq/m³.
The effects of residential radon on human health have been studied worldwide since the 1980s. In addition, studies conducted in Europe, North America, and China have proven that even
radon levels in dwellings below the acceptable level can pose long-term risks to residents health
and contribute to the development of lung cancer. Relying upon the average level of radon and the
prevalence of cigarette smoking in the country, radon causes 3-14% of the total incidence of lung
cancer. An increase of 100 Bq/m 3 in long time average radon concentration increases the risk of lung
cancer by approximately 16%, which is considered that there is a linear relationship between radon
concentration and lung cancer.
- Full text:202506051741064399MMS-2024-208(2)-48-55.pdf
