Estimation of Linear No-Threshold (lnt) Cancer Risks from Radon Concentrations in Groundwater Samples

From Mubi-North Metropolis, Adamawa State, Nigeria.

Abstract

This research assessed the Radon (²²²Rn) concentrations in groundwater sources from Mubi-north metropolis, and estimated the associated excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) using the linear no-threshold (LNT) model. Radon concentration was estimated from the gross alpha activity concentration obtained using MCP 2000-DP at center for energy research and training (CERT) Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The mean Radon activity concentration in water and air ranging from 0.0082 – 0.1518 and 3.28 x10^-9 -6.072 x10^-8 Bq/L respectively, this meant that the concentration of Radon in water is far greater than in air, the annual effective dose for the locations ranging from 9.44 x10^-18 – 4.723 x 10^-16 Sv, and the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) ranging from 3.637 x 10^-17 – 1.818 x 10^-15. The concentration of Radon in all the sampling locations were below the recommended screening limit of 0.5Bq/L by world health organization (WHO) and other radiation protection agencies, therefore the water from the locations is good for drinking and domestic activities.