Origin and health risks of indoor radon

Journal Article · Fri Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1988 · Semin. Nucl. Med.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/S0001-2998(88)80014-X· OSTI ID:5287018

Hendee, W R; Doege, T C

Radon has always been a component of ground and air and it has been present in increased concentrations from the moment humans first sought shelter inside dwellings. Recent improvements in the energy efficiency of dwellings have led to increased concentrations of radon and to increased risks of lung cancer. To quantify the magnitude of this risk, well-designed epidemiological studies, including surveys of representative dwellings, are needed, and several are being implemented. In the meantime, the EPA and other agencies have offered guidance on monitoring procedures and remedial measures appropriate for the problem on indoor radon. Recent disclosures of relatively high concentrations of radon and radon decay products in homes in several parts of the country have increased public concern about the problem. More information and education are needed about the health risks of radon, the desirability of implementing monitoring procedures for radon, and about remediation measures when detected levels are above average. Educational resources are needed in communities to address local issues when they arise. These resources should include knowledgeable individuals who can work with state and county health officials to put public concerns into perspective within the local context. Physicians, other health professionals, and medical scientists have the knowledge and credentials to be these individuals. To provide health professionals with knowledge and skills to communicate with the public about the health risks of radon, the American Medical Association has prepared an authoritative report and initiated a series of regional seminars on the origin and health risks of radon. 26 references.

• Research Organization: American Medical Association, Chicago, IL (USA)
• OSTI ID: 5287018
• Journal Information: Semin. Nucl. Med.; (United States), Journal Name: Semin. Nucl. Med.; (United States) Vol. 18:1; ISSN SMNMA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

560161* -- Radionuclide Effects
Kinetics
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63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
AIR POLLUTION
BODY
DISEASES
DOCUMENT TYPES
ELEMENTS
FLUIDS
GASES
HAZARDS
HEALTH HAZARDS
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
LUNGS
MONITORING
NEOPLASMS
NONMETALS
ORGANS
POLLUTION
RADIATION HAZARDS
RADIATION MONITORING
RADIOINDUCTION
RADON
RARE GASES
RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
REVIEWS
RISK ASSESSMENT