Radon is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless radioactive gas in the soil and rock beneath homes. As radon decays, it releases tiny radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe. Over time, these particles can damage the cells that line your lungs, increasing your risk of lung cancer.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths each year. The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure depends on the level of radon present in your home, the length of time in contact with the gas, and your smoking habits (if you are a smoker).
Symptoms Of Radon Exposure
Unlike other harmful gases like carbon monoxide, radon does not cause any immediate symptoms. You may not even know it is present in your home. Lung cancer caused by radon exposure can take years to develop, so testing for radon in your home is essential.
How Radon Enters Your Home
Radon can enter your home through cracks in walls, floors, and foundations, as well as through gaps around pipes and cables, construction joints, and well water. The amount of radon in your home depends on many factors, including the amount of uranium in the soil, the ventilation, and the pressure difference between the inside and outside of your home. Specific home features, such as basement and first-floor levels and homes with a crawl space, can make it easier for radon to enter.
How To Protect Yourself From Radon
The EPA recommends that all new or old homes be tested for radon. Radon testing is easy and can be done with a do-it-yourself test kit or by hiring a professional. If elevated radon levels are found, they can be reduced. These steps may include sealing cracks, improving ventilation, and installing a radon mitigation system.
If you are buying or selling a home, having it tested for radon is important. Many states require radon testing as part of the home inspection process. If you are building a new home, consider installing radon-resistant features such as a vent pipe or a natural gas or electric fan, which can reduce the levels of radon in your home by up to 99%.
Overall, the dangers of radon in homes are genuine. Testing your home for radon is the only way to know if you are at risk. Simple steps can be taken to reduce radon levels, making your house safer for you and your family.