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Khan SM, Pearson DD, Eldridge EL, Morais TA, Ahanonu MIC, Ryan MC, Taron JM, Goodarzi AA. Rural communities experience higher radon exposure versus urban areas, potentially due to drilled groundwater well annuli acting as unintended radon gas migration conduits. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3640. [PMID: 38409201 PMCID: PMC10897331 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53458-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Repetitive, long-term inhalation of radioactive radon gas is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, with exposure differences being a function of geographic location, built environment, personal demographics, activity patterns, and decision-making. Here, we examine radon exposure disparities across the urban-to-rural landscape, based on 42,051 Canadian residential properties in 2034 distinct communities. People living in rural, lower population density communities experience as much as 31.2% greater average residential radon levels relative to urban equivalents, equating to an additional 26.7 Bq/m3 excess in geometric mean indoor air radon, and an additional 1 mSv/year in excess alpha radiation exposure dose rate to the lungs for occupants. Pairwise and multivariate analyses indicate that community-based radon exposure disparities are, in part, explained by increased prevalence of larger floorplan bungalows in rural areas, but that a majority of the effect is attributed to proximity to, but not water use from, drilled groundwater wells. We propose that unintended radon gas migration in the annulus of drilled groundwater wells provides radon migration pathways from the deeper subsurface into near-surface materials. Our findings highlight a previously under-appreciated determinant of radon-induced lung cancer risk, and support a need for targeted radon testing and reduction in rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selim M Khan
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Dustin D Pearson
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Evangeline L Eldridge
- Department of Earth, Energy and Environment, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Tiago A Morais
- Department of Earth, Energy and Environment, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Marvit I C Ahanonu
- School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - M Cathryn Ryan
- Department of Earth, Energy and Environment, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Joshua M Taron
- School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Aaron A Goodarzi
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Department of Oncology, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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2
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Urrutia-Pereira M, Chatkin JM, Chong-Neto HJ, Solé D. Radon exposure: a major cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. J Bras Pneumol 2023; 49:e20230210. [PMID: 38055388 PMCID: PMC10760439 DOI: 10.36416/1806-3756/e20230210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to radon can impact human health. This is a nonsystematic review of articles written in English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese published in the last decade (2013-2023), using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and SciELO. Search terms selected were radon, human health, respiratory diseases, children, and adults. After analyzing the titles and abstracts, the researchers initially identified 47 studies, which were subsequently reduced to 40 after excluding reviews, dissertations, theses, and case-control studies. The studies have shown that enclosed environments such as residences and workplaces have higher levels of radon than those outdoors. Moreover, radon is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, especially in nonsmokers. An association between exposure to radon and development of other lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, was also observed. It is crucial to increase public awareness and implement governmental control measures to reduce radon exposure. It is essential to quantify radon levels in all types of buildings and train professionals to conduct such measurements according to proven efficacy standards. Health care professionals should also be informed about this threat and receive adequate training to deal with the effects of radon on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn Urrutia-Pereira
- . Departamento de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Pampa - UNIPAMPA - Uruguaiana (RS) Brasil
| | - José Miguel Chatkin
- . Disciplina de Medicina Interna e Pneumologia, Escola de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul - PUCRS - Porto Alegre (RS) Brasil
| | | | - Dirceu Solé
- . Disciplina de Pediatria, Escola Paulista de Medicina - EPM - Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP - São Paulo (SP) Brasil
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3
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Vera-Chang MN, Danforth JM, Stuart M, Goodarzi AA, Brand M, Richardson RB. Profound DNA methylomic differences between single- and multi-fraction alpha irradiations of lung fibroblasts. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:174. [PMID: 37891670 PMCID: PMC10612361 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01564-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alpha (α)-radiation is a ubiquitous environmental agent with epigenotoxic effects. Human exposure to α-radiation at potentially harmful levels can occur repetitively over the long term via inhalation of naturally occurring radon gas that accumulates in enclosed spaces, or as a result of a single exposure from a nuclear accident. Alterations in epigenetic DNA methylation (DNAm) have been implicated in normal aging and cancer pathogenesis. Nevertheless, the effects of aberrations in the methylome of human lung cells following exposure to single or multiple α-irradiation events on these processes remain unexplored. RESULTS We performed genome-wide DNAm profiling of human embryonic lung fibroblasts from control and irradiated cells using americium-241 α-sources. Cells were α-irradiated in quadruplicates to seven doses using two exposure regimens, a single-fraction (SF) where the total dose was given at once, and a multi-fraction (MF) method, where the total dose was equally distributed over 14 consecutive days. Our results revealed that SF irradiations were prone to a decrease in DNAm levels, while MF irradiations mostly increased DNAm. The analysis also showed that the gene body (i.e., exons and introns) was the region most altered by both the SF hypomethylation and the MF hypermethylation. Additionally, the MF irradiations induced the highest number of differentially methylated regions in genes associated with DNAm biomarkers of aging, carcinogenesis, and cardiovascular disease. The DNAm profile of the oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes suggests that the fibroblasts manifested a defensive response to the MF α-irradiation. Key DNAm events of ionizing radiation exposure, including changes in methylation levels in mitochondria dysfunction-related genes, were mainly identified in the MF groups. However, these alterations were under-represented, indicating that the mitochondria undergo adaptive mechanisms, aside from DNAm, in response to radiation-induced oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS We identified a contrasting methylomic profile in the lung fibroblasts α-irradiated to SF compared with MF exposures. These findings demonstrate that the methylome response of the lung cells to α-radiation is highly dependent on both the total dose and the exposure regimen. They also provide novel insights into potential biomarkers of α-radiation, which may contribute to the development of innovative approaches to detect, prevent, and treat α-particle-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn N Vera-Chang
- Radiobiology and Health Branch, Chalk River Laboratories, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Chalk River, ON, K0J 1J0, Canada
| | - John M Danforth
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Marilyne Stuart
- Environment and Waste Technologies Branch, Chalk River Laboratories, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Chalk River, ON, K0J 1J0, Canada
| | - Aaron A Goodarzi
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Marjorie Brand
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Richard B Richardson
- Radiobiology and Health Branch, Chalk River Laboratories, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Chalk River, ON, K0J 1J0, Canada.
- McGill Medical Physics Unit, Cedars Cancer Centre-Glen Site, Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada.
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Andresz S, Marchand-Moury A, Goyette-Pernot J, Rivière AL, Schieber C. When citizen science meets radon building diagnosis: Synthesis of a French pilot project developed in the framework of the European RadoNorm research project. OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2023; 3:106. [PMID: 37744279 PMCID: PMC10511845 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.15968.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
As part of the European RadoNorm research project, citizen science pilot projects focusing on the management of radon risk in houses have been implemented in four countries. This article describes the methodological basis, the development and the results of the French pilot project. Building on an initial review of existing literature, the pilot project aims to frame a 'participatory approach' aligned with the standards and recognized practices of citizen science. Particular attention was given to the management of data and the inclusion of ethical considerations. The focal point of the project was the process of radon building diagnosis which is supposed to be carried out whenever (high) radon concentrations are measured and should be prerequisite to mitigation works. As experience shows, however, this diagnosis is hardly implemented in France. To help remedy this situation, the pilot project recruited citizens already aware about radon from Pays Vesoul Val-de-Saône (East of France) to test an existing online self-evaluation guide for radon diagnosis, report on their operational experience and meet with radon/building experts. This enabled citizens to contribute to improvements in form and content to the guide and to ensure that it would be better fit for purpose. Comparison of the guide with experts' practices offered additional perspectives on what building diagnosis should entail. The pilot project produced rich and high-quality data that will nurture the evolution of the guide. The project demonstrated both the viability and the utility of applying the citizen science approach to radon post-measurement phases, with measurable benefits in bridging knowledge gaps and in encouraging behavioural changes. The results of using a citizen science approach in the field of radon management and research are encouraging, and they far outweigh the challenges involved in the implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvain Andresz
- Nuclear Protection Evaluation Centre (CEPN), Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92260, France
| | - Ambre Marchand-Moury
- Centre for Studies and Expertise on Risks, the Environment, Mobility and Urban Planning (Cerema), Autun, 71400, France
| | - Joëlle Goyette-Pernot
- Transform Institute, Romand Centre for Indoor Air Quality and Radon (croqAIR); School of Engineering and Architecture of Fribourg (HEIA-FR), HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Fribourg, 1700, Switzerland
| | | | - Caroline Schieber
- Nuclear Protection Evaluation Centre (CEPN), Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92260, France
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Hahn EJ, Haneberg WC, Stanifer SR, Rademacher K, Backus J, Rayens MK. Geologic, seasonal, and atmospheric predictors of indoor home radon values. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH, HEALTH : ERH 2023; 1:025011. [PMID: 37701077 PMCID: PMC10496436 DOI: 10.1088/2752-5309/acdcb3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to tobacco smoke and radon cause lung cancer. Radioactive decay of naturally occurring uranium in bedrock produces radon. Seasonality, bedrock type, age of home, and topography have been associated with indoor radon, but the research is mixed. The study objective was to examine the relationships of geologic (soil radon and bedrock) and seasonal (warm and cold times of the year) factors with indoor home radon values in citizen scientists' homes over time, controlling for atmospheric conditions, topography, age of home, and home exposure to tobacco smoke. We collected and analyzed indoor radon values, soil radon gas concentrations, and dwelling- and county-level geologic and atmospheric conditions on 66 properties in four rural counties during two seasons: (1) summer 2021 (n = 53); and (2) winter/spring 2022 (n = 52). Citizen scientists measured indoor radon using Airthings radon sensors, and outdoor temperature and rainfall. Geologists obtained soil radon measurements using RAD7 instruments at two locations (near the dwelling and farther away) at each dwelling, testing for associations of indoor radon values with soil values, bedrock type, topography, and atmospheric conditions. Bedrock type, near soil radon levels, home age, and barometric pressure were associated with indoor radon. Dwellings built on carbonate bedrock had indoor radon values that were 2.8 pCi/L (103.6 Bq m-3) higher, on average, compared to homes built on siliclastic rock. Homes with higher near soil radon and those built <40 ago were more likely to have indoor radon ⩾4.0 pCi/L (148 Bq m-3). With higher atmospheric barometric pressure during testing, observed indoor radon values were lower. Seasonality and topography were not associated with indoor radon level. Understanding relationships among bedrock type, soil radon, and indoor radon exposure allows the development of practical predictive models that may support pre-construction forecasting of indoor radon potential based on geologic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen J Hahn
- BREATHE, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - William C Haneberg
- Kentucky Geological Survey, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Stacy R Stanifer
- BREATHE, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Kathy Rademacher
- BREATHE, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Jason Backus
- Kentucky Geological Survey, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
| | - Mary Kay Rayens
- BREATHE, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States of America
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Cholowsky NL, Chen MJ, Selouani G, Pett SC, Pearson DD, Danforth JM, Fenton S, Rydz E, Diteljan MJ, Peters CE, Goodarzi AA. Consequences of changing Canadian activity patterns since the COVID-19 pandemic include increased residential radon gas exposure for younger people. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5735. [PMID: 37029226 PMCID: PMC10081328 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32416-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has produced widespread behaviour changes that shifted how people split their time between different environments, altering health risks. Here, we report an update of North American activity patterns before and after pandemic onset, and implications to radioactive radon gas exposure, a leading cause of lung cancer. We surveyed 4009 Canadian households home to people of varied age, gender, employment, community, and income. Whilst overall time spent indoors remained unchanged, time in primary residence increased from 66.4 to 77% of life (+ 1062 h/y) after pandemic onset, increasing annual radiation doses from residential radon by 19.2% (0.97 mSv/y). Disproportionately greater changes were experienced by younger people in newer urban or suburban properties with more occupants, and/or those employed in managerial, administrative, or professional roles excluding medicine. Microinfluencer-based public health messaging stimulated health-seeking behaviour amongst highly impacted, younger groups by > 50%. This work supports re-evaluating environmental health risks modified by still-changing activity patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha L Cholowsky
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Myra J Chen
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ghozllane Selouani
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sophie C Pett
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Dustin D Pearson
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - John M Danforth
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Shelby Fenton
- Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ela Rydz
- Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Cheryl E Peters
- Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, British Columbia Cancer, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Aaron A Goodarzi
- Robson DNA Science Centre, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Brobbey A, Rydz E, Fenton S, Demers PA, Ge CB, Peters CE. Characterizing occupational radon exposure greater than 100 Bq/m 3 in a highly exposed country. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21323. [PMID: 36494406 PMCID: PMC9734100 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25547-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Radon is an established lung carcinogen concentrating in indoor environments with importance for many workers worldwide. However, a systematic assessment of radon levels faced by all workers, not just those with direct uranium or radon exposure, has not previously been completed. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of workers exposed to radon, and the level of exposure (> 100-200 Bq/m3, 200-400 Bq/m3, 400-800 Bq/m3, and > 800 Bq/m3) in a highly exposed country (Canada). Exposures among underground workers were assessed using the CAREX Canada approach. Radon concentrations in indoor workplaces, obtained from two Canadian surveys, were modelled using lognormal distributions. Distributions were then applied to the susceptible indoor worker population to yield the number of exposed workers, by occupation, industry, province, and sex. In total, an estimated 603,000 out of Canada's 18,268,120 workers are exposed to radon in Canada. An estimated52% of exposed workers are women, even though they comprise only 48% of the labour force. The majority (68%) are exposed at a level of > 100-200 Bq/m3. Workers are primarily exposed in educational services, professional, scientific and technical services, and health care and social assistance, but workers in mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction have the largest number of exposed workers at high levels (> 800 Bq/m3). Overall, a significant number of workers are exposed to radon, many of whom are not adequately protected by existing guidelines. Radon surveys across multiple industries and occupations are needed to better characterize occupational exposure. These results can be used to identify exposed workers, and to support lung cancer prevention programs within these groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Brobbey
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830CAREX Canada, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - E. Rydz
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830CAREX Canada, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - S. Fenton
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830CAREX Canada, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - P. A. Demers
- grid.512212.7Occupational Cancer Research Centre, Ontario Health, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - C. B. Ge
- grid.4858.10000 0001 0208 7216TNO, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - C. E. Peters
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830CAREX Canada, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.22072.350000 0004 1936 7697Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada ,grid.418246.d0000 0001 0352 641XBCCDC, Vancouver, BC Canada ,BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC Canada
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8
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Social factors and behavioural reactions to radon test outcomes underlie differences in radiation exposure dose, independent of household radon level. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15471. [PMID: 36104382 PMCID: PMC9473468 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19499-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractRadioactive radon gas inhalation causes lung cancer, and public health strategies have responded by promoting testing and exposure reduction by individuals. However, a better understanding of how radon exposure disparities are driven by psychological and social variables is required. Here, we explored how behavioural factors modified residential radon-related radiation doses incurred by 2390 people who performed a radon test. The average time from first awareness to receiving a radon test outcome was 6.8–25.5 months, depending on behaviour and attitudes. 20.5% displayed radon test urgency that reduced irradiation between awareness and outcome to 1.8 mSv from a typical 3.5 mSv, while 14.8% (more likely to be men) displayed delaying behaviours that increased exposure to 8.0 mSv. Of those with low radon, 45.9% indicated no future testing intention, underscoring the importance of original tests to reliably establish risk. Among people finding high radon, 38% mitigated quickly, 29% reported economic impediments, and 33% displayed delaying behaviours. Economic barriers and delaying behaviours resulted in 8.4 mSv/year or 10.3 mSv/year long term excess exposure, respectively, increasing lifetime risk of lung cancer by ~ 30–40%. Excess radiation doses incurred from behaviour were independent of household radon level, highlighting the strong influence of psychological and socioeconomic factors on radon exposure and lung cancer risks.
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9
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Danforth JM, Provencher L, Goodarzi AA. Chromatin and the Cellular Response to Particle Radiation-Induced Oxidative and Clustered DNA Damage. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:910440. [PMID: 35912116 PMCID: PMC9326100 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.910440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to environmental ionizing radiation is prevalent, with greatest lifetime doses typically from high Linear Energy Transfer (high-LET) alpha particles via the radioactive decay of radon gas in indoor air. Particle radiation is highly genotoxic, inducing DNA damage including oxidative base lesions and DNA double strand breaks. Due to the ionization density of high-LET radiation, the consequent damage is highly clustered wherein ≥2 distinct DNA lesions occur within 1–2 helical turns of one another. These multiply-damaged sites are difficult for eukaryotic cells to resolve either quickly or accurately, resulting in the persistence of DNA damage and/or the accumulation of mutations at a greater rate per absorbed dose, relative to lower LET radiation types. The proximity of the same and different types of DNA lesions to one another is challenging for DNA repair processes, with diverse pathways often confounding or interplaying with one another in complex ways. In this context, understanding the state of the higher order chromatin compaction and arrangements is essential, as it influences the density of damage produced by high-LET radiation and regulates the recruitment and activity of DNA repair factors. This review will summarize the latest research exploring the processes by which clustered DNA damage sites are induced, detected, and repaired in the context of chromatin.
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10
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Nunes LJR, Curado A, da Graça LCC, Soares S, Lopes SI. Impacts of Indoor Radon on Health: A Comprehensive Review on Causes, Assessment and Remediation Strategies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073929. [PMID: 35409610 PMCID: PMC8997394 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Indoor radon exposure is raising concerns due to its impact on health, namely its known relationship with lung cancer. Consequently, there is an urgent need to understand the risk factors associated with radon exposure, and how this can be harmful to the health of exposed populations. This article presents a comprehensive review of studies indicating a correlation between indoor radon exposure and the higher probability of occurrence of health problems in exposed populations. The analyzed studies statistically justify this correlation between exposure to indoor radon and the incidence of lung diseases in regions where concentrations are particularly high. However, some studies also showed that even in situations where indoor radon concentrations are lower, can be found a tendency, albeit smaller, for the occurrence of negative impacts on lung cancer incidence. Lastly, regarding risk remediation, an analysis has been conducted and presented in two core perspectives: (i) focusing on the identification and application of corrective measures in pre-existing buildings, and (ii) focusing on the implementation of preventive measures during the project design and before construction, both focusing on mitigating negative impacts of indoor radon exposure on the health of populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonel J. R. Nunes
- PROMETHEUS, Unidade de Investigação em Materiais, Energia e Ambiente para a Sustentabilidade, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-347 Viana do Castelo, Portugal;
- Escola Superior Agrária, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4990-706 Ponte de Lima, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - António Curado
- PROMETHEUS, Unidade de Investigação em Materiais, Energia e Ambiente para a Sustentabilidade, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-347 Viana do Castelo, Portugal;
- Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Gestão, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-348 Viana do Castelo, Portugal;
| | - Luís C. C. da Graça
- UICISA:E, Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-347 Viana do Castelo, Portugal; (L.C.C.d.G.); (S.S.)
| | - Salete Soares
- UICISA:E, Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-347 Viana do Castelo, Portugal; (L.C.C.d.G.); (S.S.)
| | - Sérgio Ivan Lopes
- Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Gestão, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-348 Viana do Castelo, Portugal;
- ADiT-Lab, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 4900-347 Viana do Castelo, Portugal
- Instituto de Telecomunicações (I), Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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The Role of Mitochondrial miRNAs in the Development of Radon-Induced Lung Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020428. [PMID: 35203638 PMCID: PMC8962319 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are short, non-coding RNA molecules regulating gene expression by inhibiting the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) or leading to degradation. The miRNAs are encoded in the nuclear genome and exported to the cytosol. However, miRNAs have been found in mitochondria and are probably derived from mitochondrial DNA. These miRNAs are able to directly regulate mitochondrial genes and mitochondrial activity. Mitochondrial dysfunction is the cause of many diseases, including cancer. In this review, we consider the role of mitochondrial miRNAs in the pathogenesis of lung cancer with particular reference to radon exposure.
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12
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Martell M, Perko T, Tomkiv Y, Long S, Dowdall A, Kenens J. Evaluation of citizen science contributions to radon research. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2021; 237:106685. [PMID: 34265518 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2021.106685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In order to reduce lung cancer due to radon exposure situations, not only authorities and organisations but also citizens may meaningfully contribute to radon mitigation actions. Citizen science (CS) initiatives are recognised for their scientific, societal and policy value related to environmental issues. The purpose of this paper is to identify which CS initiatives in the field of radon exist and evaluate to what extent these CS initiatives contribute to radon research and/or radiation protection from radon. We conducted a systematic review of internet pages and scientific literature (September-December 2020) as well as expert consultation to help us identify and assess CS initiatives on radon (September 2020-February 2021). The ten principles of the European Citizen Science Association have been used as a starting point to develop indicators for the analysis of CS contributions to radon research. The results show that there are at least eight CS initiatives in the world contributing to radon related research which comply, to some degree, with each of the ten principles. In all these initiatives citizens contributed or are contributing meaningfully to radon testing and measurements. However, most of them apply the simplest form of participation (crowdsourcing) and only one focuses on radon mitigation. Moreover, unlike CS initiatives in other environmental areas, those focusing on radon are always led by the authorities and/or universities, in a top-down manner. Yet, results confirm that both the experts in radon-related fields and the citizen scientists from radon prone areas benefit from taking part in radon CS initiatives. Experiences and lessons learned in radon related to CS initiatives are identified and discussed in order to inspire future CS initiatives potentially contributing to reducing exposure to radon as well as to the implementation of national radon action plans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yevgeniya Tomkiv
- Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management/CERAD (Centre for Environmental Radioactivity), 1433, Ås, Norway
| | - Stephanie Long
- Environmental Protection Agency, Y35 W821, Wexford, Ireland
| | - Alison Dowdall
- Environmental Protection Agency, Y35 W821, Wexford, Ireland
| | - Joke Kenens
- SCK CEN, 2400, Mol, Belgium; KU Leuven, 300 Leuven, Belgium
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13
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Khan SM, Pearson DD, Rönnqvist T, Nielsen ME, Taron JM, Goodarzi AA. Rising Canadian and falling Swedish radon gas exposure as a consequence of 20th to 21st century residential build practices. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17551. [PMID: 34475435 PMCID: PMC8413302 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96928-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Radioactive radon gas inhalation is a major cause of lung cancer worldwide and is a consequence of the built environment. The average radon level of properties built in a given period (their 'innate radon risk') varies over time and by region, although the underlying reasons for these differences are unclear. To investigate this, we analyzed long term radon tests and buildings from 25,489 Canadian to 38,596 Swedish residential properties constructed after 1945. While Canadian and Swedish properties built from 1970 to 1980s are comparable (96-103 Bq/m3), innate radon risks subsequently diverge, rising in Canada and falling in Sweden such that Canadian houses built in the 2010-2020s have 467% greater radon (131 Bq/m3) versus Swedish equivalents (28 Bq/m3). These trends are consistent across distinct building types, and regional subdivisions. The introduction of energy efficiency measures (such as heat recovery ventilation) within each nation's build codes are independent of radon fluctuations over time. Deep learning-based models forecast that (without intervention) the average Canadian residential radon level will increase to 176 Bq/m3 by 2050. Provisions in the 2010 Canada Build Code have not significantly reduced innate radon risks, highlighting the urgency of novel code interventions to achieve systemic radon reduction and cancer prevention in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selim M Khan
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Dustin D Pearson
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Markus E Nielsen
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Joshua M Taron
- School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Aaron A Goodarzi
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Cholowsky NL, Irvine JL, Simms JA, Pearson DD, Jacques WR, Peters CE, Goodarzi AA, Carlson LE. The efficacy of public health information for encouraging radon gas awareness and testing varies by audience age, sex and profession. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11906. [PMID: 34099826 PMCID: PMC8185097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91479-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Radioactive radon inhalation is a leading cause of lung cancer and underlies an ongoing public health crisis. Radon exposure prevention strategies typically begin by informing populations about health effects, and their initial efficacy is measured by how well and how fast information convinces individuals to test properties. This communication process is rarely individualized, and there is little understanding if messages impact diverse demographics equally. Here, we explored how 2,390 people interested in radon testing differed in their reaction to radon's public health information and their subsequent decision to test. Only 20% were prompted to radon test after 1 encounter with awareness information, while 65% required 2-5 encounters over several months, and 15% needed 6 to > 10 encounters over many years. People who most delayed testing were more likely to be men or involved in engineering, architecture, real estate and/or physical science-related professions. Social pressures were not a major factor influencing radon testing. People who were the least worried about radon health risks were older and/or men, while negative emotional responses to awareness information were reported more by younger people, women and/or parents. This highlights the importance of developing targeted demographic messaging to create effective radon exposure prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha L Cholowsky
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jesse L Irvine
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Justin A Simms
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Dustin D Pearson
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Weston R Jacques
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Cheryl E Peters
- Cancer Epidemiology & Prevention Research, Alberta Health Services and Departments of Oncology & Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Aaron A Goodarzi
- Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Oncology, Robson DNA Science Centre, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
| | - Linda E Carlson
- Division of Psychosocial Oncology, Department of Oncology, Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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