What is the risk of lung cancer from radon exposure for smokers?

The risk associated with lung cancer from radon exposure for smokers is significantly higher than for non-smokers due to the combined effects of radon and tobacco smoke on lung tissue. Smokers are already at an increased risk of lung cancer, and when combined with radon exposure, the risk escalates markedly.

Epidemiological studies indicate that the risk can be represented as approximately 62 lung cancer cases per 1000 smokers exposed to high levels of radon. This statistic reflects the synergistic effect between radon decay products and the carcinogenic substances found in tobacco smoke, meaning that the two factors together create a greater risk than either would independently.

Understanding this statistic is essential for professionals assessing radon exposure in environments where smoking is common. It emphasizes the importance of addressing both smoking cessation and radon mitigation to effectively reduce lung cancer risk in at-risk populations.