Radon seems to be able to cause lung cancer, but the link between radon and cancer is not as clear as you would think. Studies of Uranium miners showed an increase in lung cancer for the miners. But the studies also showed that the risk of lung cancer was complicated by smoking and other actions that not only add to the risk, but in combination with radon, actually multiply the risk. Once again, the fact that we have always been exposed to small amount of radon would probably mean that our body can effectively repair that damage. So, you watch too much TV, huh.
Mutations are another name for changes in the genes that are passed on to offspring.
Studies that have been following the survivors of the atomic bombs in Japan have found no increase in the natural incidence of harmful mutations. Some laboratory studies have shown that mutations are possible in rats. What this probably means is that there is some chance of harmful mutations in humans, but these have not been seen because the are so rare. The mass media version of mutations are fantasy, sorry no spidy or hulk, no godzilla either. This will be a monthly feature where I will place facts concerning radiation, radiation exposure or radiation safety.