Is radon exposure linked to increased stroke risk?

A recent study has revealed a concerning association between exposure to radon and an elevated risk of a stroke

Randon is a colourless, odourless gas that has been long recognised as the second leading cause of lung cancer; this research highlights its particular impact on cardiovascular health, particularly among middle-aged to older female participants.

The study and how is changes our understanding of Strokes

Conducted by Dr Eric A. Whitsel, MD, MPH, from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, the study examined the health outcomes of 158,910 female participants with an average age of 63 who did not have a history of strokes when the study took place.

Over the 13-year observation period, a significant correlation between radon exposure and an increased risk of stroke emerged. Randon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is produced during the breakdown of metals like uranium or radium in rocks and soil. It can infiltrate homes through cracks in basement walls and floors, construction joints, and pipe gaps.

Despite being imperceptible without testing, random has now been identified as a potential risk factor for stroke.

The dangers of radon exposure

The participants were divided into three groups based on their residential radon exposure. The highest group, living in areas with average random concentration exceeding four picocuries per litre (pCi/L), exhibited a 14% increased risk of stroke compared to the lowest exposure group (less than two pCi/L).

The middle group, exposed to concentrations between two and four pCi/L, showed a 6% increased risk.

Dr. Whitsel emphasised the significance of these findings, stating, “More studies are needed to confirm our findings. Confirmation would present an opportunity to improve public health by addressing an emerging risk factor for stroke.”

Increased stroke risk

The study raised concerns as it identified an increased stroke risk even among those exposed to radon concentrations as low as two pCi/L below the current threshold for recommending radon migration set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA recommends that average indoor radon concentrations should not exceed four pCi/L, with higher concentrations warranting the installation of radon mitigation systems. This study underscores the potential need for reevaluating these thresholds in the context of stroke risk.