Long-term exposures to large amounts of radon are responsible for the alarming increase in the number of lung cancer cases, American specialists believe. In 16 counties in Romania, radon levels exceeding the permitted threshold were recorded, with an average radon concentration almost 3 times higher than the national average.
The number of lung cancer cases is increasing among non-smokers – Photo Archive
Lung cancer accounts for 18.2% of cancer deaths. Despite the association with smoking, 15-20% of new cases occur in non-smokers, most of whom are in their 40s and 50s who have never smoked, according to 360Medical.
US experts believe that exposure to radon gas is to blame for this alarming increase. Colorless and odorless, radon gas is emitted by the decay of radioactive materials found naturally in soil around the world.
Radon enters homes through cracks in floors, walls and foundations, posing a health risk. Inhaling it increases the risk of lung cancer. Radioactive gas can persist in homes and lungs undetected in the absence of a specific test.
The Transylvania region and large urban centers such as Bucharest, Iași, Timișoara and Constanța are considered areas with a high risk of radon exposure in Romania, according to researchers from the Babeș-Bolyai University.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), radon is the main cause of 15% of lung cancer cases in the world. Also, the International Agency for the Study of Cancer (IARC) classifies radon as the main carcinogenic environmental agent for the population.
Moreover, according to the WHO, radon is the main cause of lung cancer for non-smokers and the second risk factor for smokers. It contributes to 3%-14% of lung cancer cases, depending on radon levels and smoking prevalence. The combination of radon exposure and smoking is particularly dangerous for the lungs.
However, most Americans are not aware of its existence or danger, so most have not tested the level of radon in their homes.
“Anyone can develop lung cancer and we should be aware and concerned about radon exposure as it is thought to be one of the leading causes of lung cancer in never smokers – and there is something we can do to reduce our risk,” said Dr. David Carbone, thoracic oncology specialist and director of the OSUCCC-James Thoracic Oncology Center.
Experts recommend simple tests to measure radon in the home and measures such as installing a radon remediation system outside the home, increasing airflow and sealing cracks to reduce radon exposure.
Lung cancer on the rise in young nonsmokers
Smoking is the main risk factor for lung cancer, but rates are also increasing among non-smokers.
Symptoms of lung cancer include fatigue, frequent coughing, chest pain, wheezing and coughing up blood. Any persistent symptoms should be checked by a doctor, regardless of age. Detected early, the cure rate for lung cancer is 90-95%. However, most cases are detected in advanced stages, when treatments are less effective.
Screening is essential for people at risk and exposed to second-hand smoke, radon, or occupational exposure.
A survey shows that only one in four Americans have tested their home for radon, which causes more than 20,000 deaths annually in the US.
“Your health and the health of your family are the most important things you have. Really insist on making your concerns known if your symptoms don't resolve, even if you don't fit the typical 'picture' of lung cancer. It could really save your life“, recommends doctor David Carbone.
Experts stress the importance of radon testing in homes, schools and workplaces, as exposure to this gas can be just as dangerous at school or work as it is in basements. They advocate for mandatory radon testing legislation in these places, given the cumulative effects of radon on lung health that can occur decades later.
Radon in Romania
In many European countries, but also in Romania, there are guidelines and regulations for measuring and controlling radon levels in buildings for the protection of public health.
Our country is at the top of European countries regarding radon concentrations measured in indoor air, according to Cinelli et al., 2019, from the perspective of radon risk in buildings.
Euratom Directive 59 obliges member states, including Romania, to monitor and report radon levels and take protective measures.
Babeș-Bolyai University (UBB) performs radon measurements, having over 30 years of experience in the field. UBB researchers drew attention to the increased level of radon in public buildings, including kindergartens and schools. The UBB team has been researching the effects of radon for more than 20 years and says it has raised numerous alarm signals, especially in recent years, related to the increased level of radon in public buildings, the quoted source said.
In 16 counties in Romania, radon levels exceeding the permitted threshold were recorded, with an average radon concentration almost 3 times higher than the national average. Elevated levels of this gas cause lung cancer and leukemia. These counties are: Alba, Arad, Bihor, Bistrița-Năsăud, Brașov, Caraș-Severin, Cluj, Covasna, Harghita, Hunedoara, Maramureș, Mureș, Sibiu, Sălaj, Satu Mare and Timiș.
The Transylvania region and large urban centers such as Bucharest, Iași, Timișoara and Constanța are considered areas with a high risk of radon exposure.
