Radon and lung cancer - 21/08/26
, Maxime Janin 3, Laura Mezquita 3, 4, 5, Benjamin Besse 6Summary |
Lung cancer is the deadliest cancer in Europe and worldwide. While 80–90% of cases are linked to tobacco, other risk factors include occupational exposures, air pollution, and radon. Radon is a natural radioactive gas, odorless and colorless, produced by uranium decay. It accumulates mainly in poorly ventilated buildings, accounting for over 50% of total exposure. Radon exposure causes genomic damage (DNA mutations, breaks) and immune system dysfunction (chronic inflammation, immunosuppression), promoting lung carcinogenesis. Epidemiological studies show a clear link between radon exposure and lung cancer risk, with a 10–20% increased risk per 100 Bq/m 3 increment. This risk is independent of smoking but synergistic with it. Prevention focuses on building ventilation, sealing, and systematic radon measurement in high-risk areas. Legal thresholds exist (300 Bq/m 3 in France) but enforcement varies. Prospective studies, such as Bioradon, aim to clarify biological mechanisms and refine screening strategies.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Keywords : Radon, Lung cancer, Lung adenocarcinoma
Plan
Vol 113 - N° 9
P. 1038-1046 - septembre 2026 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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