Maria De Lourdes Villalba

Dr. Maria De Lourdes Villalba


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

9Years (2018-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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CLCarolina Lerma-Treviño
Carolina Lerma-Treviño
HRHector Rubio-Arias
Hector Rubio-Arias
LCLuis Colmenero
Luis Colmenero
MVMaria De Lourdes Villalba
Maria De Lourdes Villalba
Jesus M. Ochoa-RiveroJesus M. Ochoa-Rivero
Jesus M. Ochoa-Rivero
Radon (222Rn) is an odorless and tasteless gas that is known to cause lung cancer. The objective of this research was to quantify the levels of exposure to radon among people living in an environment rich in uranium (U). Radon concentrations were measured for 3 days in 12 homes in Aldama, Mexico. Homeowners agreed to participate in the study; hence, the sample was non-probabilistic. Radon was measured with a portable AlphaGuard Radon Monitor (Genicron Instruments GmbH), which was placed in a bedroom of each home at a height of 0.74 m. Gas levels were registered in Becquerels (Bq m−3), with readings taken every 10 min along with readings of ambient temperature (AT), air pressure (AP), and relative humidity (RH). We found that radon gas levels in Aldama exceed the maximum permissible limits (USA: 148 Bq m−3). Levels were higher at night, and were above the maximum permissible level recommended by the International Atomic Energy Agency of the United Nations (<200 Bq m−3). Most residents in the area have family histories of lung problems, but it was difficult to establish a strong correlation between 222Rn and lung cancer. Federal, state, and municipal governments should take stronger action to reduce the effects of radon gas on communities.

1 November 2021 in Tecnología y ciencias del agua
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
HRHéctor Osbaldo Rubio-Arias
Héctor Osbaldo Rubio-Arias
Jesus M. Ochoa-RiveroJesus M. Ochoa-Rivero
Jesus M. Ochoa-Rivero
MVMaria De Lourdes Villalba
Maria De Lourdes Villalba
EBEUTIQUIO BARRIENTOS
EUTIQUIO BARRIENTOS
COCELIA DE LA MORA OROZCO
CELIA DE LA MORA OROZCO
AFAgrícolas Y Pecuarias Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales
Agrícolas Y Pecuarias Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales