Beyond dust and smoke: Scientists warn dangerous radon gas may be increasing lung cancer risks in Weija, McCarthy Hill and parts of Ghana
Scientists warn that radon gas may be increasing lung cancer risks in Weija, McCarthy Hill and parts of Ghana. Dr. Irene Opoku-Ntim, Senior Research Scientist at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, said, "There's also another hidden risk that is radon, which is giving people lung cancer beyond smoking and the other pollutants that we know out there."
Radon is a radioactive gas naturally present in the environment. It seeps from the ground into homes through cracks, holes and poorly ventilated spaces. The World Health Organisation says indoor radon levels above 100 becquerels per cubic metre pose a health risk. Researchers have identified areas with higher concentrations of radon, including Weija, Kasoa, and McCarthy Hill. Research shows that places with high radon concentration is being correlated with places that have earthquakes.
Scientists say that if soil tests show high radon levels, they will advise on how to build. They advise sealing cracks in homes. Researchers say greater awareness and testing could help families better protect themselves.
Quick Summary
Ghana Atomic Energy Commission researchers are raising concerns about a dangerous, naturally occurring gas. They say prolonged exposure to radon could increase lung cancer risks - even among non-smokers.
Summary - read the full story for complete context.
Image: MyJoyOnline
GhanaFront aggregates news from trusted sources. Click to read the original article.
Keywords
Explore related tagsMore from MyJoyOnline
Related Stories
More from Health
NACOC calls for nationwide drug fight as Commission warns abuse crisis is beyond its capacity
Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission is sounding the alarm, indicating that the nation's drug crisis is escalating beyond its current capacity.
12h ago•4 min read
Ghana Medical Trust Fund explores partnership to expand access to diagnostic services
The Ghana Medical Trust Fund is exploring strategic alliances to expand its reach in diagnostic services-find out how this could transform patient
14h ago•2 min read
Ghana has not overproduced nurses; recruitment delays are the problem - Nursing and Midwifery Council
Ghana's Nursing and Midwifery Council challenges the notion of nurse overproduction, pointing to a different core problem affecting healthcare
1d ago•3 min read
Too young for sugar sickness: The rise of diabetes among children in Ghana
Discover how modern living and dietary shifts are contributing to a concerning increase in diabetes among Ghana's youth.
1d ago•3 min read
