The EPA estimates that the risk of lung cancer death for a current smoker with a constant radon exposure of 4 pCi/L is how many in 1,000?

The correct answer is based on the correlation established between radon exposure levels and lung cancer risk, particularly for smokers. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has conducted extensive studies on this subject and has determined that for a current smoker who is exposed to radon at a level of 4 pCi/L, the estimated risk of death from lung cancer is 62 in 1,000.

This statistic reflects the significant increase in risk that radon exposure can pose to individuals who smoke, as smoking is already a primary risk factor for lung cancer. The EPA’s findings underline the multiplicative effect of smoking and radon exposure on lung cancer risk, illustrating how existing health behaviors can heighten vulnerability to environmental toxins.

In contrast to this figure, the lower estimates provided in the other choices do not reflect the reality of the increased risk for this specific demographic. Understanding this risk factor is crucial for raising awareness about radon exposure and its implications, especially for smoking populations. The data and risk figures serve as an urgent call to action for testing and mitigating radon levels in homes and buildings where smoking occurs.