Why is radon the public health risk that it is?
EPA estimates that about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the U.S. are
radon-related. Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer
after smoking. Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas produced by the
decay of naturally occurring uranium in soil and water. Radon is a form of
ionizing radiation and a proven carcinogen. Lung cancer is the only known effect
on human health from exposure to radon in air. Thus far, there is no evidence
that children are at greater risk of lung cancer than are adults. For additional information visit the EPA web site: http://www.epa.gov/radon/aboutus.html
Percentage of homes with Radon
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Should I test my home?Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon. EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon.
You cannot predict radon levels based on state, local, and neighborhood radon measurements. Do not rely on radon tests taken in other homes in the neighborhood to estimate radon levels in your home. Homes which are next to each other can have different indoor radon levels. Testing is the only way to find out what your home's radon level is. |
U.S. Surgeon General Health Advisory“Indoor radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and breathing it over prolonged periods can present a significant health risk to families all over the country. It’s important to know that this threat is completely preventable. Radon can be detected with a simple test and fixed through well-established venting techniques.” January 2005
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