What type of studies have most strongly linked radon exposure to health risks?

The connection between radon exposure and health risks, particularly lung cancer, has been most robustly established through studies focusing on occupational exposures in miners. These studies have consistently shown that miners, who often work in environments with high levels of radon gas, experience significantly elevated rates of lung cancer. This relationship is supported by evidence that mining conditions often lead to prolonged exposure to radon and its decay products, creating a direct link between high radon levels and adverse health outcomes.

These occupational studies are crucial as they provide strong epidemiological evidence due to the controlled settings and high levels of radon exposure faced by miners. Such data serves as a compelling basis for understanding the risks associated with radon exposure in residential and other environments. While residential studies, long-term environmental studies, and clinical trials on lung cancer patients do contribute valuable information, the occupation-based research has provided the most direct and compelling correlation between radon exposure and lung cancer incidence.