Radon as a causative factor in induction of myeloid leukaemia and other cancers

Lancet. 1990 Apr 28;335(8696):1008-12. doi: 10.1016/0140-6736(90)91071-h.

Abstract

The international incidence of myeloid leukaemia, cancer of the kidney, melanoma, and certain childhood cancers all show significant correlation with radon exposure in the home. For myeloid leukaemia, analysis suggests that in the UK 6-12% of incidence may be attributed to radon. In Cornwall, where radon levels are higher, the range is 23-43%. For the world average radon exposure of 50 Bq.m-3, 13-25% of myeloid leukaemia at all ages may be caused by radon.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alpha Particles
  • Background Radiation / adverse effects
  • Bone Marrow / radiation effects
  • Canada / epidemiology
  • Child
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic
  • Fetus / radiation effects
  • Global Health
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Leukemia, Myeloid / epidemiology
  • Leukemia, Myeloid / etiology*
  • Leukemia, Radiation-Induced / epidemiology
  • Leukemia, Radiation-Induced / etiology
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / epidemiology
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / etiology*
  • Polonium / adverse effects
  • Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / epidemiology
  • Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / etiology*
  • Radon / adverse effects*
  • Regression Analysis
  • Risk Factors
  • United Kingdom / epidemiology

Substances

  • Polonium
  • Radon