Which hazardous material has a strong link to an increased risk of lung cancer when present indoors?

Radon is a radioactive gas that is produced from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without specific testing equipment. When radon gas is trapped indoors, it can accumulate to high levels, particularly in areas such as basements or poorly ventilated spaces.

The health risks associated with radon are significant; prolonged exposure to elevated levels is known to increase the risk of lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. The mechanism involves the inhalation of radon decay products, which emit radiation that can damage lung tissue over time, increasing the likelihood of developing cancer.

In contrast, while carbon monoxide can be dangerous and lead to serious health issues, it primarily causes poisoning rather than being linked directly to increased cancer risks. Lead exposure can result in a range of health issues, particularly in children, but it is not specifically connected to lung cancer. Mold can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions, but its direct link to lung cancer is not substantiated in the same way that radon is.

Therefore, radon stands out as the hazardous material that poses a specific and increased