Discovery of a Method for Early Detection of Lung Cancer

SadaNews - Scientists from the University of Calgary in Canada have discovered a simple and unexpected method for the early detection of lung cancer, by analyzing samples from toenails, which helps doctors identify at-risk individuals.

The innovative method is based on an intriguing scientific fact, which is that after the body inhales radon gas, it converts it into radioactive lead, then stores it in slowly growing tissues such as toenails. Using precise measurement techniques, the scientists were able to accurately determine the amount of radioactive lead in the toenails.

The researchers were able to detect the lead-210 isotope resulting from radon decay in 39 out of 55 analyzed toenail samples (71%). It appeared that individuals who inhaled high levels of radon in their homes for an average of 26.5 years had significantly higher levels of this isotope in their toenails.

The results also revealed that this effect remains evident even after 6 years of moving to safer locations, which means that our toenails retain a permanent record of our exposure to hazardous environmental factors.

The researchers noted that this discovery is an important step towards saving the lives of thousands of people, especially non-smokers who may develop lung cancer due to exposure to radon without realizing it.

It is noteworthy that radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive inert gas that is produced from the decay of uranium and radium in rocks, soil, and water. It can be inhaled, and when accumulated in enclosed spaces like homes and mines, it can pose a health risk and cause lung cancer.

Source: Qatari News Agency (QNA)