Academic Research Journal on Health Information Management

Vol. 5(2), pp. 49-54, June 2024

ISSN: 2734-2190

https://doi.org/10.14662/arjhim2024400

 

Full Length Research

 

 

Housing Characteristics and Levels of Concentration of Indoor Radon Gas in Delta State. Implications for Cancer Prevention and Public Health in Nigeria

 

1Mr. Otalekor,.O. Isaiah, 2Mr. Atumah, Lawrence and 3Mr. Eguenu, Charles

 

1,2Department: Science Laboratory Technology, School of Applied Sciences and Technology, Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Delta State 3Department: Science Computer Science, School Applied of Sciences and Technology, Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Delta State  

 

Accepted 11 June 2024

Abstract

Abstract: Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, poses significant health risks, particularly lung cancer, when accumulated in indoor environments. This study investigated the levels of radon concentration in residential buildings across five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Delta State, Nigeria, with an emphasis on housing characteristics and associated health implications. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 215 houses selected through stratified random sampling. Radon levels were measured using alpha track detectors over a three-month period, and health surveys were conducted to assess radon-related health conditions among occupants. Data analysis utilized descriptive and inferential statistics, with correlations and significance tests to identify key factors influencing radon concentrations. Results indicated that radon levels varied significantly by housing type and location. Bungalows had the lowest average radon concentration of 3.2 pCi/L, while multi-story buildings had the highest at 6.1 pCi/L, reflecting differences in ventilation and building age. Across LGAs, Sapele recorded the highest average radon concentration (5.1 pCi/L), with 55% of houses exceeding the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L, followed by Warri (4.8 pCi/L, 60%) and Jesse (4.0 pCi/L, 50%). Conversely, Oghara reported the lowest average concentration at 3.5 pCi/L, with only 35% of houses above the threshold. Health data revealed a strong association between radon exposure and respiratory conditions. Among participants, 24% reported lung cancer, with an average radon exposure of 6.2 pCi/L. Respiratory issues were prevalent in 30% of respondents (average exposure: 5.0 pCi/L), while 40% experienced coughing and wheezing (average exposure: 4.3 pCi/L). The study also identified housing features significantly correlated with radon levels, including building age (r = 0.45, p = 0.02) and basement foundations (r = 0.62, p = 0.01), highlighting the role of structural and design elements in radon accumulation. Ventilation quality showed an inverse relationship with radon concentration (r = -0.36, p = 0.03), emphasizing the importance of airflow in mitigating radon risks. Notably, houses with concrete slab foundations and tiled floors recorded an average radon concentration of 3.4 pCi/L (SD = 1.1), while those with basement foundations and carpeted floors had significantly higher levels at 5.9 pCi/L (SD = 1.5). Mud foundation houses with ground-tiled floors had the lowest concentration at 2.7 pCi/L (SD = 0.8). These findings underscore the influence of construction materials and foundation types on radon infiltration. The study concludes that radon concentrations in Delta State are influenced by a combination of housing characteristics, ventilation quality, and geographical location. With over 40% of surveyed houses exceeding the EPA action level, there is an urgent need for public health interventions, including awareness campaigns and radon mitigation strategies. Policies promoting better building designs, improved ventilation, and regular radon testing are critical to minimizing exposure risks and reducing the incidence of radon-related health conditions. These findings contribute to the limited body of research on radon exposure in sub-Saharan Africa and provide a framework for addressing radon-related public health challenges in Nigeria. Further studies incorporating seasonal variations and long-term health monitoring are recommended to enhance understanding and policy formulation

 

Keywords: Radon concentration; Housing characteristics; Delta State; Public health’ Lung cancer; Ventilation quality; Radon mitigation

Paper type: research