Evaluation of the radon risk level from soil in Jigawa State, Nigeria, using a 10-point evaluation system

Abstract

In this research, a ten-point radon potential system was used in assessing and mapping the radon-prone area of Jigawa State, Nigeria. Radon is the second-highest cause of lung cancer mortality in the world. The increased lung cancer among non-smokers in Nigeria required a critical investigation of the cause. One way of achieving this is by identifying areas of high radon potential. The ten-point evaluation system uses a graded approach to assess radon areas as low, medium, or high potential zones. This system is applied to Jigawa state. It shows that 72.76% of Jigawa state has low radon potential, 27.24% has medium radon potential, and no area of Jigawa state has high radon potential. The total annual effective dose for low, medium, and high radon potential areas was calculated in the range of 0.276 mSvy^-1 to 2.758 mSvy^-1, 3.033 mSvy^-1 to 9.927 mSvy^-1, and 10.204 mSvy^-1 to 13.789 mSvy^-1, respectively. High radon potential levels indicate the upper bound of the maximum tolerable dose to individuals slated by the International Commission for Radiation Protection (ICRP). The findings of this study show that the people of Jigawa State are living at a safe level of radon exposure.