Estimation of Excess Lifetime Cancer Risks at the Niger Delta University Sculpture Garden, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

The exposure rates at the Niger Delta University sculpture gardens have been measured and excess lifetime cancer risk has also been determined. Measurement of exposure rate was carried out in a total of twenty points around the garden using a portable hand-held radiation detector, radalert 100X. Results show averages of exposure rate, absorbed dose, annual effective dose and excess lifetime cancer risk as 0.012 mRh^-1, 107.9 nGyh^-1, 0.132 mSvy^-1 and 0.162 x 10^-3 respectively. All averages, except for absorbed dose rate, were below world average. The results show low radiation level in the materials used in sculptures at the garden. However, this low level can pose specific health risks after prolonged exposure. There is the need to begin to apply caution in the consideration of materials used for building the sculptures so as to avoid the introduction of radioactive elements into the garden. Conclusively. the study suggests that the Niger Delta University sculpture garden is relatively safe for public use.

exposure rate, sculpture garden, excess lifetime cancer risk

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