How dangerous is radon to your health?

Radon is a radioactive gas that can be found in homes and buildings, and exposure to high levels of radon can be dangerous to your health. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, and it is estimated to cause tens of thousands of lung cancer deaths each year in the United States alone.

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that is produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It can seep into buildings through cracks and gaps in the foundation, and it can accumulate to high levels in enclosed spaces like basements and crawl spaces.

When radon is breathed in, it can damage the DNA in cells lining the lungs, which can lead to cancer. The risk of lung cancer from radon exposure depends on the level of radon in the air, the length of time a person is exposed, and whether or not they smoke. Smokers who are also exposed to high levels of radon have an even higher risk of developing lung cancer.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that all homes be tested for radon, and that any levels above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) be addressed. Radon levels can be reduced through a variety of methods, including sealing cracks and gaps in the foundation and installing a radon mitigation system.

If you are concerned about radon in your home, you can contact a qualified radon professional for testing and mitigation recommendations. It's important to take radon exposure seriously and to take steps to protect yourself and your family from its harmful effects.