An epidemiological study of underground uranium mine workers documents a striking excess of bronchogenic carcinoma. The occupational exposure most responsible for this excess is inhalation of:
- A Radon gas and its short-lived alpha emitting daughter products ✓
- B Asbestos fibres suspended in mine dust
- C Silica particles generated during drilling
- D External gamma radiation from ore bodies alone
Correct answer: A. Radon gas and its short-lived alpha emitting daughter products
Explanation
Radon, a radioactive inert gas arising from the uranium-238 decay series in rock and soil, diffuses into mines and poorly ventilated buildings. Its short-lived alpha emitting daughters deposit in the respiratory tract and are recognised as the second most important cause of lung cancer after smoking. Asbestos and silica are co-exposures in mining but are not specific to uranium mines, and external gamma exposure is not the dominant driver.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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