Which health effects are typically associated with radon gas exposure?

Radon gas exposure is primarily associated with severe health effects, most notably lung cancer. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that results from the natural decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. When radon is inhaled, radon decay products can attach to lung tissue, leading to cellular damage and increasing the risk of lung cancer over prolonged exposure. This association has been well-documented in scientific studies, with radon being recognized as the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking.

Skin rash, hearing loss, and kidney damage are not typically linked to radon exposure. Skin rash is more often related to allergens or irritants, hearing loss can result from various factors including noise exposure or aging, and kidney damage usually stems from other environmental toxins or health conditions rather than radon. Therefore, lung cancer remains the primary and significant health concern regarding radon exposure.