Retrospective look at Rn-induced lung cancer mortality from the viewpoint of a relative risk model

Journal Article · Wed Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1988 · Health Phys.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1097/00004032-198806000-00004· OSTI ID:6908204

Puskin, J S; Yang, Y

The potential contribution to U.S. lung cancer deaths from 1930 to 1987 from indoor /sup 222/Rn exposures is investigated from the standpoint of a constant relative risk model. Based on this model, which assumes a Rn risk proportional to the baseline lung cancer risk from other causes, the rate of Rn-induced lung cancer mortality has been increasing sharply since 1930. However, the estimated proportion of lung cancer deaths attributable to Rn has remained fairly constant. Applying the range of coefficients the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency employs in assessing the risk from indoor Rn, it is estimated that 8-25% of all current lung cancer deaths are attributable to past Rn exposures. The major sources of uncertainty in the estimates are discussed.

• Research Organization: Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6908204
• Journal Information: Health Phys.; (United States), Journal Name: Health Phys.; (United States) Vol. 54:6; ISSN HLTPA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
AIR POLLUTION
ALPHA DECAY RADIOISOTOPES
BIOLOGICAL MODELS
BODY
CARCINOGENESIS
DAYS LIVING RADIOISOTOPES
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INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
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LUNGS
MORTALITY
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RADIOINDUCTION
RADIOISOTOPES
RADON 222
RADON ISOTOPES
RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
RISK ASSESSMENT