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External gamma radiation caused by radon in water used for home haemodialysis (HHD)
Author(s) -
Riitta M.K.,
Meeri K.,
Jyrki H.,
Tuukka T.,
Hannu A.,
Eero H.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
hemodialysis international
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.658
H-Index - 47
eISSN - 1542-4758
pISSN - 1492-7535
DOI - 10.1111/j.1492-7535.2005.1121bv.x
Subject(s) - radon , effective dose (radiation) , environmental science , radiation dose , medicine , dose rate , nuclear medicine , radiochemistry , medical physics , chemistry , physics , quantum mechanics
Background: Radon is a natural radioactive element found especially in drilled water wells. It may cause problems in HHD. In this study the occurrence and prevention of radiation exposure to radon among HHD patients was examined. Material and methods: Since 1998, 103 patients have been trained for HHD and drilled wells were used in 7 patients. Apart from routine analyses, radon concentration was also determined. Results: High radon concentration was observed in three drilled wells, in one of these 2000 Bq/L. Water was conducted into the HHD‐equipment through a charcoal filter and reverse osmosis equipment. Radon concentration was less than 50 Bq/L in the purified water. It was thus considered acceptable for dialysis. As the charcoal filter adsorbs radon, its decay products build up in the filter and emit gamma radiation. Considering that the daily through‐put of water is about 375 liters, the estimated dose rate for a radon concentration of 1,000 Bq/L is 0.4 microSv/h at one‐meter distance. At this distance the annual dose would be 1.8 mSv, expecting a daily occupancy time of 12 hours. The average background gamma dose rate in Finnish dwellings is 0.1 microSv/h. National dose constraints of 3 mSv/year for adults and 1 mSv/year for children living in HHD‐households have been recommended. Conclusions: Waterborne radon must be considered when planning of HHD in households where drilled wells are used. Elevated radon concentration should always be removed from household water. In addition, external gamma radiation from charcoal filters requires appropriate restrictions in order to achieve a safe treatment.