WORCESTER, Mass., Mar 26, 2008 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Scientists have found
exposure to the low levels of radon gas found in most U.S. homes might cut the
risk of developing lung cancer by up to 60 percent.
The study by researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, the Fallon Clinic
and Fallon Community Health Plan, is said to be the first to observe a
statistically significant hormetic effect of low-level radon exposure.
Home exposure to radon, a naturally occurring radioactive decay product of
radium, has been thought to be the second leading cause of lung cancer, after
cigarette smoking. Chemically inert, it can percolate from the ground into
basements.
"It is important to note that these new results do not dispute the lung cancer
risk associated with higher levels of radon exposure Â
Copyright 2008 by United Press International