How are uranium miners at risk for lung cancer?

Uranium miners are at risk for lung cancer primarily due to their exposure to radon gas and its radioactive decay products, known as radon daughters.12

While radon is a radioactive gas, its specific danger to the lungs arises when these daughter nuclides—which are in particulate form—are inhaled and deposited within the respiratory tract. Once deposited, these particles release alpha particles that irradiate the surrounding tissues, which can lead to the development of lung cancer.1

Additionally, uranium miners may be exposed to insoluble forms of uranium-238, which are known to produce fibrosis and cancer of the lung. It is also important to note that cigarette smoking significantly potentiates the risk of lung cancer in individuals exposed to radon daughters, creating a compounded health hazard.12