What study has helped determine the health risks posed by radon?

Miner studies have played a crucial role in determining the health risks posed by radon, particularly due to their foundational work in linking radon exposure to lung cancer. These studies, which focus on populations of miners who have been exposed to radon in underground mines, provided key evidence of the relationship between radon exposure and increased lung cancer rates.

The miners' work environment often had elevated levels of radon gas, and as a result, these studies were able to assess the long-term effects of exposure on lung health. They documented instances of lung cancer among the miners and established a correlation between the levels of radon exposure and the incidence of the disease. This empirical evidence has significantly influenced public health policies and guidelines regarding radon levels in homes and buildings, highlighting the increased risk that radon poses as a carcinogen.

In contrast, while epidemiological studies and longitudinal health surveys provide valuable insights into health trends and risks over broader populations, the miner studies are specifically pivotal in establishing the direct link between radon exposure and lung cancer, laying the groundwork for ongoing research and mitigation efforts.