Radon is classified as what type of carcinogen?

Radon is classified as a Group I carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This classification indicates that there is sufficient evidence to conclude that radon is carcinogenic to humans. Group I is reserved for agents that have been shown to cause cancer in humans based on epidemiological studies, and radon fits this criterion due to its well-documented link to lung cancer. Long-term exposure to radon, particularly in enclosed spaces such as homes or basements, can lead to significant health risks, making awareness and mitigation critical for public health.

The other classifications do not apply in this context; Group II includes agents for which there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity, Group III consists of agents for which the evidence is inconclusive, and Group IV includes agents that are probably not carcinogenic to humans. Radon’s established link to cancer places it firmly in Group I, underscoring the importance of radon awareness and mitigation practices in environments where exposure may occur.