A Case-Control Study of Lung Cancer Relative to Domestic Radon Exposure

Public concern was expressed regarding the possibility of adverse health effects with the disposal of radioactive waste in Port Hope, Ontario. A case-control study was carried out to estimate the relative importance of domestic radon gas exposure in the causation of lung cancer in the town over a ten-year period. Twenty-seven cases met the entry criteria. Statistical analyses of results did not provide conclusive results that linked an increased risk of lung cancer and elevated domestic alpha radiation levels, when all factors were considered. However, a very strong association was demonstrated between cigarette smoking and lung cancer.