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Karthikayini S, Chandrasekaran A. Analysis of internal gamma-ray dose to the public from brick as building material in Tamil Nadu, India. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2024; 200:240-250. [PMID: 38072679 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncad297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Natural radioactivity due to 238U, 232Th and 40K in brick samples from Tamil Nadu was determined using gamma-ray spectrometry. The mean activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th and 40K, 69 ± 6, 62 ± 6 and 462 ± 23 Bq kg-1, are slightly greater than the world recommended limits of 35, 45 and 420 Bq kg-1, respectively, and they are compared with a similar work carried out across the world. The radiological parameters such as radium equivalent activity, Raeq (193 ± 17 Bq kg-1), internal hazard index, Hin (0.71 ± 0.06), and activity utilisation index, AUI (1.43 ± 0.13), was lower, whilst absorbed dose rate, DRin (89 ± 8 nGy h-1), annual effective dose equivalent, AEDEin (0.43 ± 0.04 mSv y-1), and excess lifetime cancer risk, ELCRin (1.52 ± 0.13 mSv y-1), are slightly greater than the world's recommended limit. Bi-variate statistical analysis was performed to corroborate the relationship between radionuclides and radiological hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seenuvasan Karthikayini
- Department of Physics, Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering (Autonomous), Kalavakkam 603 110, Tamil Nadu, India
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2
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Simulation of alpha particle emitted by 222Rn from natural spring water in Puebla, Mexico. Appl Radiat Isot 2022; 184:110203. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2022.110203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Denman AR, Groves-Kirkby CJ. RADON REDUCTION IN NEW HOMES. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2022; 198:128. [PMID: 34871453 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncab168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A R Denman
- The University of Northampton, Northampton, UK
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Gaskin J, Whyte J, Zhou LG, Coyle D. Regional cost effectiveness analyses for increasing radon protection strategies in housing in Canada. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2021; 240:106752. [PMID: 34628245 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2021.106752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The incremental cost effectiveness ratios for implementing a recent recommendation to install a more radon resistant foundation barrier were modelled for new and existing housing in 2016, for each province and territory in Canada. Cost-utility analyses were conducted, in which the health benefit of an intervention was quantified in quality-adjusted life years, to help guide policymakers considering increasing investment in radon reduction in housing to reduce the associated lung cancer burden shouldered by the health care system. Lung cancer morbidity was modelled using a lifetable analysis that incorporated lung cancer incidence and survival time for localized, regional, and distant stages of diagnoses for both non-small cell and small cell lung cancer. The model accounted for surgical or advanced lung cancer treatment costs avoided, and average health care costs incurred for radon-attributable lung cancer cases prevented by the intervention. The incremental implementation of radon interventions in the housing stock was modelled over a lifetime horizon, and a discount rate of 1.5% was adopted. This radon intervention in new housing was cost effective in all but one region, ranging from $18,075/QALY (15,704; 20,178) for the Yukon to $58,454/QALY (52,045; 65,795) for British Columbia. A sequential analysis was conducted to compare intervention in existing housing for mitigation thresholds of 200 and 100 Bq/m3. This intervention in existing housing was cost effective at a mitigation threshold of 200 Bq/m3 in regions with higher radon levels, ranging from $33,247/QALY (27,699; 39,377) for the Yukon to $61,960/QALY (46,932; 113,737) for Newfoundland, and more cost effective at a threshold of 200 than 100 Bq/m3. More lung cancer deaths can be prevented by intervention in new housing than in existing housing; it was estimated that the proposed intervention in new housing would prevent a mean of 446 (416; 477) lung cancer cases annually. The cost effectiveness of increased radon resistance in foundation barriers in housing varied widely, and would support adopting this intervention in new housing across Canada and in existing housing in higher radon regions. This study provides further evidence that the most cost effective way of responding to the geographically variable radon burden is by implementing specific regional radon reduction policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Gaskin
- Construction Research Centre, National Research Council, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, Canada; Radiation Protection Bureau, Health Canada, 775 Brookfield Rd, Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Jeff Whyte
- Construction Research Centre, National Research Council, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Liang Grace Zhou
- Construction Research Centre, National Research Council, 1200 Montreal Road, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Doug Coyle
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Burghele BD, Botoș M, Beldean-Galea S, Cucoș A, Catalina T, Dicu T, Dobrei G, Florică Ș, Istrate A, Lupulescu A, Moldovan M, Niță D, Papp B, Pap I, Szacsvai K, Sainz C, Tunyagi A, Țenter A. Comprehensive survey on radon mitigation and indoor air quality in energy efficient buildings from Romania. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 751:141858. [PMID: 32892081 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Over the last 10 years applied scientific research has been carried out in Romania to tacked the residential radon issues. The increased interest to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings has lead to the implementation and use of new architectural solutions aimed to save energy in houses and other buildings. As a consequence, the degree of retrofit in existing buildings and energy efficiency of new buildings promoted the need to not only mitigate indoor radon, but improve indoor air quality overall. The present study found that the while the best performance in radon reduction was confirmed to be based on sub-slab depressurization (61% - 95% reduction), centralized and decentralized mechanical supply and exhaust ventilation with heat recovery yielded a good efficiency in overall improvement of indoor air quality (CO2, VOC, RH, temperature). The outcome of our research, as well as future perspectives, take into account the recommended harmonization of energy efficiency programs with those of public health by finding and applying the best technologies in compliance with energy saving and indoor environmental quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- B D Burghele
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - M Botoș
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Faculty of Civil Engineering, Tehnical University of Cluj-Napoca, Str. C. Daicoviciu 15, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - S Beldean-Galea
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - A Cucoș
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - T Catalina
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Faculty of Engineering Installations, Technical University of Civil Engineering of Bucharest, Bld. P. Protopopescu 66, Bucharest, Romania
| | - T Dicu
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - G Dobrei
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ș Florică
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Faculty of Biology and Geology, Department of Geology, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. M. Kogalniceanu 1, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - A Istrate
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Clima Instal Systems SRL, Str. Prunilor nr. 15, Oras Pantelimon, ILFOV
| | - A Lupulescu
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - M Moldovan
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - D Niță
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - B Papp
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - I Pap
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - K Szacsvai
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - C Sainz
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria, c/ Herrera Oria s/n, 39011 Santander, Spain
| | - A Tunyagi
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Faculty of Physics, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. M. Kogălniceanu 1, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - A Țenter
- "Constantin Cosma" Radon Laboratory (LiRaCC), Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, Str. Fântânele 30, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Gong MS, Cha JR, Hong SM, Lee C, Lee DH, Joo SW. Roll-to-roll graphene oxide radon barrier membranes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 383:121148. [PMID: 31525686 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Graphene oxide as a radon barrier in living environments was introduced by intercalating the polymer resin-coated layer inside a multilayer membrane with an area of 1 × 10 m and a thickness of 2.5 mm, prepared by the roll-to-roll method. A 5 μm-thick graphene oxide polymer resin (GOPR) layer was coated on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film (100 μm) between the two styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS)-modified bitumen asphalt layers fitted for construction sites. The inserted graphene oxide materials were characterized by means of infrared, Raman, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Dispersion-corrected density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggested weaker binding energies on the oxide surfaces and higher penetration energy barriers of graphene nanopores for radon (222Rn) than in the cases of the atmospheric gas molecules Ar, H2O, CO2, H2, O2, and N2. Theoretical calculations of the graphene nanopores supported the higher barrier energies of 222Rn than most ambient gases. The roll-to-roll prepared graphene materials exhibited good barrier properties for 222Rn as well as for the ambient gases. The purpose of our experimental and theoretical study is to provide a better understanding of using graphene-based materials to reduce the risk of carcinogenic radon gas in construction sites and residential buildings for practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myoung-Seon Gong
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science and BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae-Ryung Cha
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science and BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Min Hong
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science and BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheolmin Lee
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Seokyeong University, Seoul 02713, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Lee
- Consulting & Technology for Environment Health and Safety, Seoul 04788, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Woo Joo
- Department of Information Communication, Materials Engineering, Chemistry Convergence Technology, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Republic of Korea.
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Gogna P, Narain TA, O'Sullivan DE, Villeneuve PJ, Demers PA, Hystad P, Brenner DR, Friedenreich CM, King WD. Estimates of the current and future burden of lung cancer attributable to residential radon exposure in Canada. Prev Med 2019; 122:100-108. [PMID: 31078163 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Radon is widely recognized as a human carcinogen and findings from epidemiologic studies support a causal association between residential radon exposure and lung cancer risk. Our aim was to derive population attributable risks (PAR) to estimate the numbers of incident lung cancer due to residential radon exposure in Canada in 2015. Potential impact fractions for 2042 were estimated based on a series of counterfactuals. A meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the relative risk of lung cancer per 100 Becquerels (Bq)/m3 increase in residential radon exposure, with a pooled estimate of 1.16 (95% CI: 1.07-1.24). The population distribution of annual residential radon exposure was estimated based on a national survey with adjustment for changes in the population distribution over time, the proportion of Canadians living in high-rise buildings, and to reflect annual rather than winter levels. An estimated 6.9% of lung cancer cases in 2015 were attributable to exposure to residential radon, accounting for 1741 attributable cases. If mitigation efforts were to reduce all residential radon exposures that are above current Canadian policy guidelines of 200 Bq/m3 (3% of Canadians) to 50 Bq/m3, 293 cases could be prevented in 2042, and 2322 cumulative cases could be prevented between 2016 and 2042. Our results show that mitigation that exclusively targets Canadian homes with radon exposures above current Canadian guidelines may not greatly alleviate the future projected lung cancer burden. Mitigation of residential radon levels below current guidelines may be required to substantially reduce the overall lung cancer burden in the Canadian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Gogna
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Tasha A Narain
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Dylan E O'Sullivan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Paul J Villeneuve
- Department of Health Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul A Demers
- Occupational Cancer Research Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Perry Hystad
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Darren R Brenner
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, CancerControl Alberta, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Departments of Oncology and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christine M Friedenreich
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, CancerControl Alberta, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Departments of Oncology and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Will D King
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada.
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- Departments of Oncology and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Khan SM, Gomes J, Krewski DR. Radon interventions around the globe: A systematic review. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01737. [PMID: 31193708 PMCID: PMC6538966 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radon is the primary source of environmental radiation exposure posing a significant human health risk in cold countries. In Canada, most provinces have revised building codes by 2017, requiring construction solutions to avoid radon in all new buildings. While various construction solutions and remediation techniques have been proposed and evaluated, the question about the best method that would effectively reduce radon in a variety of contexts remained unanswered. Radon practitioners, officials of radon control programs, and businesses offering radon testing and mitigation services, builders, property managers, homeowners and residents also have similar queries. OBJECTIVE This paper systematically reviewed both experimental and observational studies (S) with radon interventions (I) used globally in residential houses (P) compared to other residential or model houses (C) to evaluate relative mitigation effectiveness (O) that could guide selecting the best radon reduction strategy for residential buildings. METHODS Two researchers searched fifteen academic bibliographic and grey literature databases for radon intervention studies conducted around the world, with particular emphasis on areas of North America and Europe published from 1990 to 2018.Interventions in residential and model houses were included, but studies piloted purely in the lab were excluded; the PRISMA checklist was used to synthesize data; Cochrane and Hamilton tools were used to evaluate study quality. RESULTS Studies around the globe have investigated a variety of construction solutions, radon mitigation and remediation systems with different levels of effectiveness. In most cases, sub-slab or sump depressurization system (SSDS) with active ventilation technique was found more effective in achieving a significant and sustained radon reduction than the passive methods such as sealing, membrane, block and beam, simple ventilation, or filtration. The choice of an optimal strategy largely depends on the factors related to the initial radon level, routes of entry, building design and age, as well as other geologic, atmospheric, and climatic conditions. CONCLUSION Although an active SSDS is the best mitigation systems, at places, it needs to be combined with another system and installed by a trained radon professional considering the pertinent factors to ensure radon level continues to remain below the action level. This study did not conduct any economic evaluation of the mitigation measures. Future review with studies on the implementation of new building codes will provide updated evidence. RECOMMENDATION For the practical implementation of radon mitigation, training of the construction industry, information provision for residents, the establishment of public funds, incorporation of radon-prone areas in the land utilization maps, and enacting building codes deemed essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selim M. Khan
- Interdisciplinary Population Health Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, 25 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 7K4, Canada
| | - James Gomes
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, THN 210, 25 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 7K4, Canada
| | - Daniel R. Krewski
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Room 216A, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z3, Canada
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Denman AR, Crockett RGM, Groves-Kirkby CJ. An assessment of the effectiveness of UK building regulations for new homes in Radon Affected Areas. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2018; 192:166-171. [PMID: 29982000 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2018.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas generated underground by radioactive decay of nuclides contained in certain types of rocks, can concentrate inside buildings, where it poses the second-largest risk factor for lung cancer, after smoking. The highest concentrations of domestic radon in the UK occur in the south-western counties of Devon and Cornwall, but certain areas in Northamptonshire and surrounding counties in the English Midlands also have high levels. It has been shown that it is possible both to reduce the radon concentrations in existing houses and to build new homes with appropriate protection. Since 1999, the UK's Building Regulations have specified that all new homes should be built with a combined radon-proof/damp-proof membrane plus, in Radon Affected Areas, a sump under the building. However, the building regulations do not require that the radon level is measured once the house is built and so there is little information on the effectiveness of these measures. Builders generally do not mention radon, and when asked, just confirm that their houses are built to current standards. To better understand the efficacy or otherwise of the currently mandated radon-protection measures, a cross-sectional investigation was carried out in 26 new housing developments in high-radon areas in Northamptonshire. In a targeted mail-shot, 1056 householders were invited to apply for a free radon test; 124 replied (11.7%). In total, 94 pairs of detectors were returned (70.1% of responders), of which two were spoiled, giving a total of 92 results. Following processing and seasonal correction, the arithmetic mean radon concentration in the target houses was 45% of the arithmetic mean radon concentration in existing houses in the postcode sectors where the houses were built and were approximately log-normally distributed. No results exceeded the UK Action Level of 200 Bq. m-3 but three were above the Target Level of 100 Bq. m-3. The results suggest that the radon-proof membranes in general ensure that radon concentrations in new homes constructed in accordance with the Building Regulations in Radon Affected Areas (RAAs) are satisfactorily low. However, there is a very small statistical probability that levels in a small number of homes will be close to or above the Action Level, particularly in areas of high radon potential. As a result, the Public Health England (PHE) recommendation for testing in the first year of occupation should be adopted as a legal requirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antony R Denman
- Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology, The University of Northampton, St George's Avenue, Northampton, NN2 6JD, UK.
| | - Robin G M Crockett
- Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology, The University of Northampton, St George's Avenue, Northampton, NN2 6JD, UK.
| | - Christopher J Groves-Kirkby
- Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology, The University of Northampton, St George's Avenue, Northampton, NN2 6JD, UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan W Allen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Prabjit K Barn
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Bruce P Lanphear
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada; Child and Family Research Institute, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Tan Y, Xiao D, Yuan H, Shan J. A method to simultaneously and continuously measure the 222Rn and 220Rn exhalation rates of soil in an open loop. ISOTOPES IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH STUDIES 2014; 50:531-537. [PMID: 24830655 DOI: 10.1080/10256016.2014.916705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents a process in which a radon monitor based on the electrostatic collection method is used to measure the (222)Rn and (220)Rn exhalation rates simultaneously and continuously employing a ventilation-type accumulation chamber. Generally, the radon exhalation rate can be measured by accumulation technique, but cannot be measured continuously. The advantage of this method using a ventilation-type accumulation chamber is that the radon exhalation rates can be measured continuously. Even though the environmental air is drawn into the chamber, the low atmospheric values of radon and thoron do not influence the measurement accuracy. The (222)Rn and (220)Rn exhalation rates error from the environmental air is less than 5% in this experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanliang Tan
- a Department of Physics and Electronics , Hengyang Normal University , Hengyang , People's Republic of China
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Abstract
The connection between housing and health is well established. Physical, chemical, and biological aspects of the child's home, such as cleanliness, moisture, pests, noise, accessibility, injury risks, and other forms of housing environmental quality, all have the potential to influence multiple aspects of the health and development of children. Basic sanitation, reduced household crowding, other improvements in housing and expanded, and improved housing regulations have led to advances in children's health. For example, lead poisoning prevention policies have profoundly reduced childhood lead exposure in the United States. This and many other successes highlight the health benefits for families, particularly children, by targeting interventions that reduce or eliminate harmful exposures in the home. Additionally, parental mental health problems, food insecurity, domestic violence, and the presence of guns in children's homes all are largely experienced by children in their homes, which are not as yet considered part of the Healthy Homes agenda. There is a large movement and now a regulatory structure being put in place for healthy housing, which is becoming closely wedded with environmental health, public health, and the practice of pediatrics. The importance of homes in children's lives, history of healthy homes, asthma, and exposures to lead, carbon monoxide, secondhand/thirdhand smoke, radon, allergy triggers is discussed, as well as how changes in ambient temperature, increased humidity, poor ventilation, water quality, infectious diseases, housing structure, guns, electronic media, family structure, and domestic violence all affect children's health.
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Lung cancer risk from radon in Ontario, Canada: how many lung cancers can we prevent? Cancer Causes Control 2013; 24:2013-20. [PMID: 23982909 PMCID: PMC3824583 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-013-0278-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To calculate the burden of lung cancer illness due to radon for all thirty-six health units in Ontario and determine the number of radon-attributable lung cancer deaths that could be prevented.
Methods We calculated the population attributable risk percent, excess life-time risk ratio, life-years lost, the number of lung cancer deaths due to radon, and the number of deaths that could be prevented if all homes above various cut-points were effectively reduced to background levels. Results It is estimated that 13.6 % (95 % CI 11.0, 16.7) of lung cancer deaths in Ontario are attributable to radon, corresponding to 847 (95 % CI 686, 1,039) lung cancer deaths each year, approximately 84 % of these in ever-smokers. If all homes above 200 Bq/m3, the current Canadian guideline, were remediated to background levels, it is estimated that 91 lung cancer deaths could be prevented each year, 233 if remediation was performed at 100 Bq/m3. There was important variation across health units. Conclusions Radon is an important contributor to lung cancer deaths in Ontario. A large portion of radon-attributable lung cancer deaths are from exposures below the current Canadian guideline, suggesting interventions that install effective radon-preventive measures into buildings at build may be a good alternative population prevention strategy to testing and remediation. For some health units, testing and remediation may also prevent a portion of radon-related lung cancer deaths. Regional attributable risk estimates can help with local public health resource allocation and decision making.
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Long S, Fenton D, Cremin M, Morgan A. The effectiveness of radon preventive and remedial measures in Irish homes. JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2013; 33:141-149. [PMID: 23295191 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/33/1/141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
It is estimated that approximately 100 000 Irish homes have radon concentrations above the reference level of 200 Bq m(-3). To minimise the number of new homes with this problem, building regulations require that all new homes built since July 1998 in high radon areas are installed with radon barriers during construction. Measurements on local authority homes in a number of high radon areas have allowed the impact of these new regulations to be assessed. In County Cork a reduction of up to 70% in the mean radon concentration was observed in homes built since 1998 relative to those built before this date. A reduction in both the number of homes exceeding the reference level and the maximum concentration measured in homes was also measured. Homes exceeding the reference level were remediated with the use of an active sump. The results of this remedial work are also presented and show that the mean reduction in radon concentration achieved was 92%.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Long
- Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland, 3 Clonskeagh Square, Clonskeagh Road, Dublin 14, Ireland.
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15
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Housing interventions and control of health-related chemical agents: a review of the evidence. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2012; 16:S24-33. [PMID: 20689371 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0b013e3181e3cc2a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Subject matter experts systematically reviewed evidence on the effectiveness of housing interventions that affect health outcomes associated with exposure to chemical agents, such as pesticides, lead, volatile organic compounds, as well as the radon gas. Particulates were also examined, and the role of ventilation on exposures was assessed. The review included both published literature and peer-reviewed reports from the US Environmental Protection Agency. Four of the 14 interventions reviewed had sufficient evidence to demonstrate their effectiveness and are ready for implementation: radon air mitigation by using active soil depressurization systems, integrated pest management to reduce exposures to pesticides, smoke-free home policies making indoor areas smoke-free (ie, no smoking allowed anywhere at any time), and residential lead hazard control. Four interventions needed more field evaluation, 3 needed formative research, and 3 either had no sufficient evidence of effectiveness or had evidence the interventions were ineffective. This evidence review shows that housing improvements are likely to help reduce radon-induced lung cancer, cardiovascular mortality related to secondhand smoke, and neurological effects from exposure to pesticides and lead paint. Investing in housing interventions may yield important savings from reduced disease and injury from avoidable exposures to chemical agents.
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Estimates of costs for housing-related interventions to prevent specific illnesses and deaths. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2012; 16:S79-89. [PMID: 20689380 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0b013e3181e28b2e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Public health is embracing economic analyses in an effort to use limited resources in the most efficient manner. However, users of economic analyses in the public health arena should recognize the inherent strengths and weaknesses of different types of analysis, as well as understand how the inclusion or omission of certain costs or benefits might influence study results. For example, asthma is a chronic condition that can result in health care costs that accrue well beyond the duration of a housing intervention. Thus, an economic analysis that omits long-term health care costs can underestimate the total economic benefit of the housing intervention. This article contains reviews of economic articles on housing interventions published in PubMed, examines salient differences between studies, and discusses pertinent gaps in the literature. In addition, this article attempts to provide an overview of key economic evaluation methods in relation to housing interventions to a target audience of local and state public health practitioners. Specific housing-related health issues discussed include asthma, lead, and carbon monoxide poisoning and radon-related lung cancer.
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Rahman NM, Tracy BL. Radon control systems in existing and new construction: a review. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2009; 135:243-55. [PMID: 19622543 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncp112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
In support of the implementation of the new Canadian radon guideline, a comprehensive review of radon mitigation techniques used in countries around the world was undertaken, with particular emphasis on North America and Europe that have climates and construction techniques similar to Canada. The results of this review are presented here as an aid to administrators of radon control programmes, companies offering radon testing and mitigation services and other concerned parties, both in Canada and elsewhere, who are facing issues of implementing a radon control strategy. A wide variety of radon mitigation strategies have been employed worldwide and all have achieved some success in reducing radon concentrations. Generally, active mitigation techniques involving physical alterations to a house (e.g. sub-slab depressurisation) are more effective in achieving a sustained and substantial radon reduction than passive techniques (e.g. improved ventilation or sealing of cracks). To a large extent, the choice of an optimal mitigation strategy will depend on the building type, soil conditions and climate. Radon levels should be measured at periodic intervals after remediation, perhaps once every 5 y, to ensure that concentrations continue to remain at acceptable levels.
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Allison CC, Denman AR, Groves-Kirkby CJ, Phillips PS, Tornberg R. Radon remediation of a two-storey UK dwelling by active sub-slab depressurisation: effects and health implications of radon concentration distributions. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2008; 34:1006-1015. [PMID: 18456335 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2008.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2007] [Revised: 03/10/2008] [Accepted: 03/12/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Radon concentration levels in a two-storey detached single-family dwelling in Northamptonshire, UK, were monitored continuously throughout a 5-week period during which active sub-slab depressurisation remediation measures were installed. Remediation of the property was accomplished successfully, with both the mean radon levels and the diurnal variability greatly reduced both upstairs and downstairs. Following remediation, upstairs and downstairs radon concentrations were 33% and 18% of their pre-remediation values respectively: the mean downstairs radon concentration was lower than that upstairs, with pre- and post-remediation values of the upstairs/downstairs concentration ratio, R(U/D), of 0.81 and 1.51 respectively. Cross-correlation between upstairs and downstairs radon concentration time-series indicates a time-lag of the order of 1 h or less, suggesting that diffusion of soil-derived radon from downstairs to upstairs either occurs within that time frame or forms a relatively insignificant contribution to the upstairs radon level. Cross-correlation between radon concentration time-series and the corresponding time-series for local atmospheric parameters demonstrated correlation between radon concentrations and internal/external pressure difference prior to remediation; this correlation disappears following remediation. Overall, these observations provide further evidence that radon concentration levels within a dwelling are not necessarily wholly determined by the effects of soil-gas advection, and further support the suggestion that, depending on the precise content of the building materials, upstairs radon levels, in particular, may be dominated by radon exhalation from the walls of the dwelling, especially in areas of low soil-gas radon.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Allison
- Medical Physics Department, Northampton General Hospital, Cliftonville, Northampton NN1 5BD, UK
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Gagnon F, Courchesne M, Lévesque B, Ayotte P, Leclerc JM, Belles-Isles JC, Prévost C, Dessau JC. Assessment of the effectiveness of radon screening programs in reducing lung cancer mortality. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2008; 28:1221-1230. [PMID: 18761730 DOI: 10.1111/j.1539-6924.2008.01105.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The present study was aimed at assessing the health consequences of the presence of radon in Quebec homes and the possible impact of various screening programs on lung cancer mortality. Lung cancer risk due to this radioactive gas was estimated according to the cancer risk model developed by the Sixth Committee on Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiations. Objective data on residential radon exposure, population mobility, and tobacco use in the study population were integrated into a Monte-Carlo-type model. Participation rates to radon screening programs were estimated from published data. According to the model used, approximately 10% of deaths due to lung cancer are attributable to residential radon exposure on a yearly basis in Quebec. In the long term, the promotion of a universal screening program would prevent less than one death/year on a province-wide scale (0.8 case; IC 99%: -3.6 to 5.2 cases/year), for an overall reduction of 0.19% in radon-related mortality. Reductions in mortality due to radon by (1) the implementation of a targeted screening program in the region with the highest concentrations, (2) the promotion of screening on a local basis with financial support, or (3) the realization of systematic investigations in primary and secondary schools would increase to 1%, 14%, and 16.4%, respectively, in the each of the populations targeted by these scenarios. Other than the battle against tobacco use, radon screening in public buildings thus currently appears as the most promising screening policy for reducing radon-related lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabien Gagnon
- Faculté de Médecine et des sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada.
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Denman AR, Briggs DJ, Allison CC, Groves-Kirkby CJ, Phillips PS, Crockett RGM. A detailed evaluation of the individual health benefits arising in a domestic property following radon remediation--a case-study in Northamptonshire, U.K. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2008; 99:1175-1184. [PMID: 18358573 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2008.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2007] [Revised: 01/30/2008] [Accepted: 01/30/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Radon gas occurs naturally in the environment with variable distribution, concentrating sufficiently in the built environment in some areas to pose a public health risk. Radon levels can be successfully reduced in affected buildings, and large-scale remediation programmes have been justified in terms of accrued costs and benefits. We present results from a house where radon levels in the main living-room and master bedroom were monitored on an hourly basis over extended periods before and after radon remediation by sub-slab depressurisation. These results were combined with results from a recent occupancy survey to estimate the health impact on occupants spending varying times in the home. Prior to remediation, mean hourly radon exposure is moderately linearly correlated (R(2)=0.66-0.78) with time spent in the house. Following remediation, correlation is significantly enhanced (R(2)=0.91-0.95), but the exposure reduction of an occupant following remediation is less than that predicted using the NRPB protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Denman
- Medical Physics Department, Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust, Cliftonville, Northampton NN1 5BD, UK.
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Denman AR, Coskeran T, Phillips PS, Crockett RGM, Tornberg R, Groves-Kirkby CJ. Lowering the UK domestic radon Action Level to prevent more lung cancers--is it cost-effective? JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2008; 28:61-71. [PMID: 18309195 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/28/1/003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Case studies have shown that radon gas can accumulate within domestic properties at sufficiently high levels that it can cause lung cancer, and recent studies have suggested that this risk remains significant below the UK domestic Action Level of 200 Bq m(-3). Raised radon levels can be reduced by engineering measures, and it has been shown that domestic radon remediation programmes in UK Affected Areas can result in reduced risks to the population and can be cost-effective. We consider here the benefits and costs of the domestic radon remediation programme in Northamptonshire, UK, and consider the implications for that programme of reducing the UK Action Level below its present value. A radon remediation programme based on an Action Level above 200 Bq m(-3) will cost less and will target those most at risk, but will be less cost-effective and will lead to higher residual dose and greater risk of cancer in the remaining population. Reducing the Action Level below 200 Bq m(-3) will prevent more cancers, but at significantly higher cost. It will also be less cost-effective, because remediation of a significant number of houses with moderate radon levels will provide only a modest health benefit to occupants. Overall, a completed radon remediation programme of the type implemented in Northamptonshire is most cost-effective for an Action Level between 200 and 300 Bq m(-3). The implications for future health policy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Denman
- Medical Physics Department, Northampton General Hospital, Northampton, UK.
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Coskeran T, Denman A, Phillips P, Tornberg R. The cost-effectiveness of radon-proof membranes in new homes: A case study from Brixworth, Northamptonshire, UK. Health Policy 2007; 81:195-206. [PMID: 16854498 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2006.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2005] [Revised: 06/13/2006] [Accepted: 06/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Installing radon-proof membranes in new homes can reduce the exposure of those living in the properties to the radiation caused by a build up of radon gas. This paper considers whether doing so is cost-effective for a group of new houses constructed in the village of Brixworth, Northamptonshire, UK. The measure of cost-effectiveness used is cost per quality-adjusted life-year gained. Brixworth is situated in a high-radon area of the UK. As a result, all properties built there must comply with building regulations that require installation of membranes. When compared with a number of medical interventions and a well-established threshold value for cost-effectiveness, the use of membranes in new properties in the village is shown to be cost-effective. This result also pertains when adjustment is made for a number of assumptions adopted in estimating the cost per quality-adjusted life-year gained. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research to establish whether or not the use of membranes in new properties in other areas would be cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Coskeran
- School of Accounting, Finance and Economics, Liverpool John Moores University, John Foster Building, 98 Mount Pleasant, Liverpool L3 5UZ, UK.
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