JOURNAL ARTICLE

Radon level in groundwater in Kwara State, Nigeria, and the potential radiation dose due to intake.

  • Published In: Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 2023, v. 199, n. 19. P. 2293 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Jimoh, Kabir O; Ademola, Janet A 3 of 3

Abstract

This article focuses on the measurement and assessment of radon-222 (Rn-222) concentrations in groundwater used for domestic purposes in selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kwara State, Nigeria, and the associated radiological health risks. Using an AlphaGUARD portable radon monitor, 101 groundwater samples showed radon levels ranging from 1.49 to 32.13 Bq.l⁻¹, all below the World Health Organization (WHO) and European Commission (CEC) guidance level of 100 Bq.l⁻¹, but 18% exceeded the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 11.1 Bq.l⁻¹. All samples surpassed the Standards Organization of Nigeria’s (SON) maximum permitted level (MPL) of 0.1 Bq.l⁻¹ for radionuclide contaminants. Estimated annual effective doses from ingestion and inhalation exceeded the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) reference dose level of 0.1 mSv for most LGAs, with geological variations influencing radon concentrations. The study notes the potential for a hormetic effect of low-dose radon exposure but emphasizes the need for awareness given the reliance on groundwater in the region.

Additional Information

  • Source:Radiation Protection Dosimetry. 2023/11, Vol. 199, Issue 19, p2293
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Chemistry
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:01448420
  • DOI:10.1093/rpd/ncad227
  • Accession Number:173670368
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