Thought Leadership in Action

You’re probably well aware of the link between smoking and lung cancer. But did you know that even people who never smoke and have no family history or genetic predisposition to the disease may have a high risk of lung cancer due to radon exposure?

Radon is the No. 2 cause of lung cancer overall, and the No. 1 cause among nonsmokers. Yet many people are unaware of radon’s dangers and its related health risks. You can have your home tested for radon and have radon mitigation done if high levels are found, but many people are either unaware of this or don’t understand the risks that radon poses.

Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your family from radon.

What Is Radon?

Radon is naturally occurring and forms from the decay of radioactive elements, such as uranium. These radioactive elements are found in varying amounts in rock and soil deposits around the globe.

“As uranium in the Earth's soil breaks down, radon is released and has the ability to seep into our homes, typically through cracks in the foundation of our basements,” says David Haas, community outreach specialist for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance.

Health Risks of Radon Exposure

When people breathe in radon, radioactive particles in the gas can get trapped in your lungs, leading to increased risk of lung cancer.

It may take years after exposure for lung cancer to develop. According to the Environmental Protection Agency and the Office of the Surgeon General, more than 20,000 people die in the U.S. each year from lung cancer linked to radon exposure.

There’s also evidence of links to other issues. “While lung cancer is one of the most prevalent health risks associated with radon, it is also suspected that it can cause other lung-related illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis,” Haas says.

Preventing Radon Exposure in Your Home

Having your home inspected is the only way to determine whether your family is at risk of radon exposure. “Radon test kits are available at most home-improvement stores, or you can hire a certified radon professional,” Haas says.

“Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If tests show levels of 4 pCi/L or higher, the space is considered hazardous,” Haas says. “If high levels of radon are detected, the professional will review the next steps and discuss pricing options for mitigation systems,” he says.

It’s important to test your home for radon and hire a certified professional to reduce radon levels if hazardous levels are found. A variety of methods can be used, such as sealing cracks in walls and foundations or increasing ventilation. “If you live in an area known for having large radium deposits, you most likely are going to want to invest in a mitigation system,” Haas says.

Radon mitigation is by no means a do-it-yourself project. According to the American Cancer Society, only certified, trained professionals should engage in radon mitigation. Without the right equipment or specialized technical knowledge, you could actually make the radon levels in your home more hazardous or create other hazards.