Named an unexpected cause of increased risk of brain cancer

American researchers from the University of Oregon came to the conclusion that prolonged exposure to radon is associated with an increased risk of developing brain cancer. The study was published in the journal Neuroepidemiology.

The study analyzed data from 159,000 women. Their health was monitored for an average of about 18 years. During this time, malignant tumors of the central nervous system were detected in 451 participants.

It turned out that with an increase in the estimated exposure to radon increased the risk of such tumors. This pattern was maintained using different methods of estimating gas concentration.

Radon is formed naturally during the decay of uranium, which is contained in soil and rocks. Through cracks in the foundation and cracks in the floor, gas can penetrate into living quarters. Especially high concentrations are recorded in basements and on the first floors of poorly ventilated buildings.

Radon has no color, smell or taste. Without special devices, it cannot be detected. In radioactive decay, particles are formed that can damage the DNA of cells. Radon has previously been recognized as a risk factor for lung cancer.

Scientists believe that prolonged exposure to gas may be associated with the development of brain tumors. However, the study was observational. Radon exposure was assessed from environmental data rather than individual measurements.