Radon radiation contributes what percentage to the overall background radiation?

Radon radiation is a significant source of natural background radiation exposure for many people, primarily in certain parts of the United States, including Oklahoma. It is a colorless, odorless gas that emanates from the decay of uranium in soil and rock. This radiation contributes to the overall background radiation to a substantial degree, estimated to be around 55% of the total natural background radiation exposure for the general population.

Understanding the contribution of radon to background radiation is crucial for assessing health risks related to radiation exposure. Most people spend a considerable amount of time indoors where radon accumulation can occur. Given this context, awareness of radon levels in the home and taking appropriate mitigation measures can help reduce exposure and associated health risks, particularly lung cancer. This makes the percentage attributed to radon not only a statistic but a critical factor in radiation safety and health protection practices.