Incidence Rates of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in US States are Associated with Residential Radon Levels
Year: 2015
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: AIM: Environmental risk factors for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) have not been consistently identified. An etiologic role for ionizing radiation in CLL is controversial. Because most of the ionizing radiation to which individuals are exposed comes from radon at home, we examined CLL incidence rates in relation to residential radon levels. METHODS: We used population-based rates for CLL for US states from 2007 to 2011 and measurements of residential radon made by the US Environmental Protection Agency. RESULTS: Incidence rates for CLL were significantly correlated with residential radon levels among whites (both genders together and each gender separately; p < 0.005) and among blacks (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: We speculate that radon increases CLL risk and that the mechanisms may be similar to those by which radon causes lung cancer.
Source: Future Oncology
DOI: 10.2217/fon.15.275
Authors: Gary G Schwartz, Marilyn G Klug
Institution: University of North Dakota
Language: English
Subfield: Radiological and Ultrasound Technology
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W2185562341