Are gamma rays released from radon decay responsible for lung cancer?

Alpha particles emitted during radon decay are the primary reason for increased lung cancer risk among individuals exposed to radon gas. When radon decays, it releases alpha particles that can be inhaled into the lungs. These alpha particles are a form of ionizing radiation, and when they interact with lung tissue, they can cause cellular damage, leading to mutations that may result in cancer.

Gamma rays, on the other hand, are also a product of radioactive decay but do not pose the same direct health risk regarding lung cancer as alpha particles do. While gamma radiation is penetrating and can potentially contribute to overall radiation exposure, it does not have the same damaging effects on lung cells as alpha radiation when it comes to the specific risk associated with radon.

In summary, while gamma rays are associated with radon and other radioactive materials, it is the alpha particles that are primarily responsible for the lung cancer risk linked to radon exposure.