PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) – In the largest study of its kind, research led by Oregon State University found a link between childhood cancer and radon exposure.
During the 18-year study across 14 states, the researchers not only found a link between radon and childhood leukemia but found the link at concentrations below the Environmental Protection Agency’s recommended guidelines for radon mitigation.
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The researchers noted the significance of their findings as there are few established risk factors for childhood cancer and come as childhood cancer rates are on the rise in the United States.
Radon is a naturally occurring gas and is the product of radioactive decay of uranium found in certain rocks and soils. It can also seep into homes or buildings with risks for the radioactive particles to collect in the human body.
According to the EPA, no level of radon is safe, and the agency recommends addressing radon levels when its concentration reaches 148 becquerels per cubic meter. This study, however, considered concentrations as low as half of that.