Abstract C077: A statewide investigation of lung cancer survival and exposure to radon

Abstract Background: Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States (U.S.), with one in four deaths attributed to it according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Lung cancer is the third most common cancer overall and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths across all races, ethnicities, and genders. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) identifies radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer and the primary cause among non-smokers. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas from the decay of radium, is colorless, odorless, tasteless, chemically inert, and poses a significant health risk. Health disparities in lung cancer survival are pronounced among underserved communities, including racial and ethnic minorities and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. These disparities are influenced by factors such as reduced access to healthcare, differences in environmental exposures, and variations in the prevalence of risk factors like smoking. Tennessee ranks 45th among the 50 states with an average indoor radon level of 3.9 pCi/L. This study aims to evaluate lung cancer survival, focusing on factors such as age, sex, residential radon exposure, diagnostic stage, and smoking status, with a particular emphasis on underserved populations. Methods: Data on lung cancer cases by county will be sourced from the Tennessee Cancer Registry (TCR), a comprehensive data system that collects detailed information on cancer diagnoses and treatments among Tennessee residents. Indoor radon levels will be categorized as low (≤2 pCi/L), moderate (2-4 pCi/L), and high (>4 pCi/L). Smoking prevalence data by county will be obtained from the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps. This study will analyze lung cancer survival rates in relation to these variables, paying special attention to disparities among underserved communities. Conclusion: This study will provide insights into how residential radon exposure and smoking influence lung cancer survival disparities in Tennessee. By examining these factors alongside demographic variables and diagnostic stages, particularly in underserved communities, the findings may inform targeted public health interventions and policies aimed at reducing lung cancer disparities in the state. Citation Format: Kawther Al Ksir. A statewide investigation of lung cancer survival and exposure to radon [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr C077.