Uranium Miners were exposed to radon gas, a radioactive material thought to cause lung cancer. Uranium Miners were exposed to mining dust, thought to cause lung disease. NIOSH made the study to find if uranium miners have an increased risk for lung cancer and other lung disease when compared to the U.S. general public.

Is it safe to live near a uranium mine?

Generally, the highest potential radiation-related health risk for uranium mining or processing facility workers is lung cancer associated with inhaling uranium decay products (more specifically, radon decay products), as well as other non-lung-cancer risks associated with gamma radiation exposure on-site.

What are the risks of uranium mining?

Uranium mining has widespread effects, contaminating the environment with radioactive dust, radon gas, water-borne toxins, and increased levels of background radiation. Uranium mining is the first step in the generation of both nuclear power and nuclear weapons.