title: The effects of human activities on natural radiation exposure: health and regulatory implications.
abstract: A decade ago, interest in "enhanced" natural radiation was focused primarily on localized industrial activities, e.g., uranium, radium, thorium and phosphate production. Recognition that all human activities influence natural radiation exposure, and that indoor radon exposure is particularly sensitive to such activities (building construction practices, occupant life-styles) has added a new dimension to the problem. Public health assessments must address the problem of high individual risks of lung cancer as well as substantial population risks that are only minimally ameliorated by reduction of high exposures. In the United States, Federal, State, and local government agencies are collaborating with the private sector in developing the information needed for public guidance. Voluntary standards relating to building construction practices are likely to be developed.
mesh_terms: D004781:Environmental Exposure; D005720:Gamma Rays; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology; D008834:Microclimate; D009381:Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / Q000453:epidemiology; D011827:Radiation; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011868:Radioisotopes; D011886:Radon; D012306:Risk; D014481:United States
chemical_list: D011868:Radioisotopes; D011886:Radon