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Thus, the geometric mean is generally used for estimating the "average" radon concentration in an area. [91] The mean concentration ranges from less than 10 Bq/m 3 to over 100 Bq/m 3 in some European countries. [92] Some of the highest radon hazard in the US is found in Iowa and in the Appalachian Mountain areas in southeastern Pennsylvania. [93]
The public needs to be aware of radon risks and the means to reduce and prevent these." [2] In 1996 [citation needed], WHO published a report containing several conclusions and recommendations covering the scientific understanding of radon risk and the need for countries to take action in the areas of risk management and risk communication.
The highest levels of radon in rainwater occur during thunderstorms, and it is hypothesized that radon is concentrated in thunderstorms because it forms some positive ions during thunderstorms. [12] Estimates of the age of raindrops have been obtained from measuring the isotopic abundance of radon's short-lived decay progeny in rainwater.
Radon, a byproduct of naturally decaying uranium, is estimated to cause thousands of deaths each year nationwide. Here's how to protect yourself.
The School Health Policies and Practices Study (SHPPS), conducted by the CDC in 2012, found that of schools located in counties with high predicted indoor radon levels, only 42.4% had radon testing policies, and a mere 37.5% had policy for radon-resistant new construction practices. [59]
Radium and radon are in the environment because they are decay products of uranium and thorium. The radon (222 Rn) released into the air decays to 210 Pb and other radioisotopes, and the levels of 210 Pb can be measured. The rate of deposition of this radioisotope is dependent on the weather.
Record levels were found in a house where the effective radiation dose due to external radiation was 131 mSv/a, and the committed dose from radon was 72 mSv/a. [20] This unique case is over 80 times higher than the world average background radiation.
Radon is a colorless, odorless, naturally occurring, radioactive noble gas that is formed from the decay of radium. It is considered to be a health hazard. Radon gas from natural sources can accumulate in buildings, especially in confined areas such as the basement and it is the second most frequent cause of lung cancer, after cigarette smoking.