“Fusion of Horizons”: Part III. Rethinking radon Risk: Scientific advances and regulatory implications (since 1990s)

Abstract

This study examines the global evolution of scientific understanding regarding radon exposure and its health implications, focusing on the transition from early occupational exposure limits and epidemiological risk assessments to molecular-level attributions of radon-induced diseases. Since the early 1990s, advancements in genetic and molecular research have provided growing evidence suggesting that radon exposure may leave a distinct oncological signature, potentially allowing for more precise differentiation between radon-induced lung cancers and those caused by other factors. While this field continues to evolve, its implications extend beyond epidemiological risk assessment to include legal, medical, and regulatory frameworks. Beyond lung cancer, contemporary research has explored links between radon exposure and a range of other oncological and non-oncological diseases, including leukemia, kidney cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and chronic respiratory conditions. The study further explores the ethical and legal consequences of these findings, particularly in the context of risk governance, compensation claims, and occupational health regulations. The paper also examines the hybrid nature of radon as both naturally occurring and anthropogenically intensified hazard, complicating risk perception and public policy responses. Additionally, the phenomenon of “contaminated communities,” is discussed, wherein prolonged radon exposure disrupts social structures and contributes to psychological distress, economic losses, and legal disputes. By analyzing radon exposure through the lens of toxic disaster theory, this study outlines the sequential stages of public and regulatory responses, from initial scientific uncertainty to regulatory intervention and societal adaptation. The findings highlight a broader challenge in environmental health governance: how scientific advancements are integrated into public health policies amid economic and political constraints. Ultimately, the study underscores the need for continuous scientific inquiry and proactive policymaking to address the full spectrum of health risks associated with radon exposure.