Residential Radon Exposure in the United States: A Scoping Review

Authors' Affiliations

Stacy Stanifer, PhD, APRN, AOCNS, University of Kentucky, College of Nursing Hadii Mamudu, PhD, MPA, East Tennessee State University, College of Public Health Megan Quinn, DrPH, MSc, East Tennessee State University, College of Public Health

Location

D.P. Culp Center Ballroom

Start Date

4-5-2024 9:00 AM

End Date

4-5-2024 11:30 AM

Poster Number

21

Name of Project's Faculty Sponsor

Deborah Slawson

Faculty Sponsor's Department

Community and Behavioral Health

Classification of First Author

Graduate Student-Doctoral

Competition Type

Competitive

Type

Poster Presentation

Presentation Category

Health

Abstract or Artist's Statement

Introduction: Lung cancer remains a significant public health concern in the United States, being the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. One of the key environmental factors associated with lung cancer is residential radon exposure, which accounts for a substantial portion of lung cancer cases. This study aims to comprehensively explore the relationship between residential radon exposure and lung cancer, synthesizing a diverse range of studies conducted across various states and methodologies. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases, covering studies from 1980 to 2022. The search strategy, guided by the PCC (Population, Concept, and Context) framework, focused on radon-related lung cancer in the US. The selection process involved rigorous criteria, excluding studies before 2000, mining-related radon exposure, and non-English articles. Seventeen studies were included, employing varied research designs and populations. Results: The studies revealed geographical patterns, indicating specific counties and regions with elevated radon exposure levels linked to lung cancer incidence. Radon detection techniques varied, and radon levels in homes exhibited significant discrepancies. Some homes exceeded recommended limits, emphasizing the urgency for increased awareness and effective mitigation strategies. Studies also explored the interaction between radon exposure and smoking status, indicating a potential synergistic effect on lung cancer risk. Discussion: The findings underscore the importance of understanding radon exposure's multifaceted nature. The wide range of exposure levels and their association with specific regions highlights the need for targeted interventions. A critical consideration is the additive effect observed when radon exposure combines with smoking, necessitating a comprehensive approach addressing both factors. Previous research, including ecological indicators of residential radon, corroborates our results, emphasizing the link between radon exposure and lung cancer incidence. Conclusion: Despite the methodological disparities and potential confounding factors, these studies provide a foundational understanding of the radon-lung cancer association. The study's limitations, including recall bias and uncontrolled confounders, must be acknowledged. However, the research highlights the urgency for continued investigations and public health initiatives to minimize radon exposure. Future studies should delve into the mechanisms underlying this association and leverage technological advancements, like geographic information systems, for targeted interventions. Collaborative interdisciplinary efforts are crucial for deepening our understanding of the radon-lung cancer relationship and developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.

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Apr 5th, 9:00 AM Apr 5th, 11:30 AM

Residential Radon Exposure in the United States: A Scoping Review

D.P. Culp Center Ballroom

Introduction: Lung cancer remains a significant public health concern in the United States, being the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. One of the key environmental factors associated with lung cancer is residential radon exposure, which accounts for a substantial portion of lung cancer cases. This study aims to comprehensively explore the relationship between residential radon exposure and lung cancer, synthesizing a diverse range of studies conducted across various states and methodologies. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases, covering studies from 1980 to 2022. The search strategy, guided by the PCC (Population, Concept, and Context) framework, focused on radon-related lung cancer in the US. The selection process involved rigorous criteria, excluding studies before 2000, mining-related radon exposure, and non-English articles. Seventeen studies were included, employing varied research designs and populations. Results: The studies revealed geographical patterns, indicating specific counties and regions with elevated radon exposure levels linked to lung cancer incidence. Radon detection techniques varied, and radon levels in homes exhibited significant discrepancies. Some homes exceeded recommended limits, emphasizing the urgency for increased awareness and effective mitigation strategies. Studies also explored the interaction between radon exposure and smoking status, indicating a potential synergistic effect on lung cancer risk. Discussion: The findings underscore the importance of understanding radon exposure's multifaceted nature. The wide range of exposure levels and their association with specific regions highlights the need for targeted interventions. A critical consideration is the additive effect observed when radon exposure combines with smoking, necessitating a comprehensive approach addressing both factors. Previous research, including ecological indicators of residential radon, corroborates our results, emphasizing the link between radon exposure and lung cancer incidence. Conclusion: Despite the methodological disparities and potential confounding factors, these studies provide a foundational understanding of the radon-lung cancer association. The study's limitations, including recall bias and uncontrolled confounders, must be acknowledged. However, the research highlights the urgency for continued investigations and public health initiatives to minimize radon exposure. Future studies should delve into the mechanisms underlying this association and leverage technological advancements, like geographic information systems, for targeted interventions. Collaborative interdisciplinary efforts are crucial for deepening our understanding of the radon-lung cancer relationship and developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.