Indoor radon exposure in Africa: A critical review on the current research stage and knowledge gaps

Indoor radon exposure poses significant health risks and has prompted testing and mitigation programs in regions such as Europe, North America, Japan, and South Korea. However, African countries have not adopted similar measures on a comparable scale. Limited research on radon exposure in Africa can be attributed to a lack of awareness among policymakers and the public, insufficient expertise in radiation protection and measurements, and restricted access to resources such as laboratories and testing equipment. This review examines existing research articles on radon exposure conducted in African countries, focusing on the efforts made by specific nations, such as Tunisia and Sudan, to address this issue. It analyzes the scope, scale, and impact of these initiatives compared to global efforts in managing radon exposure risks. The findings reveal that the study of radon exposure in Africa is still in its early stages, with limited progress and modest initiatives compared to other regions. While some efforts have been made, they are insufficient to effectively address the significant health risks associated with radon exposure. There is an urgent need for African policymakers and researchers to prioritize radon exposure as a public health issue. Developing frameworks, standards, and mitigation strategies is essential to reduce risks in homes and workplaces. This review emphasizes the importance of addressing radon exposure in African countries and offers recommendations to guide future research and policy development.