American Lung Association urges testing for radon
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According to the Environmental Protection Agency, radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year and is the leading cause of lung cancer in people who have never smoked.. The EPA recommends that everyone test their home for radon annually.
“Radon in homes is more common than you think. In fact, high levels of radioactive radon gas have been found in every state but most places in the country remain undertested, so this isn’t something that should be taken lightly. Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States,” said Kevin Stewart, Director of Environmental Health for the Lung Association.
January is National Radon Action Month, and the American Lung Association is offering more information about testing for the gas at Lung.org/radon.
If a test is positive, a radon mitigation system should be installed. The process is a relatively affordable procedure that involves a vent pipe, fan, and properly sealing cracks and other openings, according to the ALA. Some state health departments offer financial assistance or low-interest loans for radon mitigation.
