How Does Radon Affect Your Health?

Anyone can get lung cancer from breathing in high levels of radon over time. Radon is an odorless, invisible, radioactive gas naturally released from rocks, soil, and water. Radon can get into homes and buildings through small cracks or holes and build up in the air. When you breathe in radon, radioactive materials can get trapped in your lungs and can cause lung cancer. Here are some key points regarding the health effects of radon:

1. Lung Cancer: Long-term exposure to elevated levels of radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can be inhaled into the lungs. Once inhaled, these particles can damage lung tissue and increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Smokers who are also exposed to high levels of radon have a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer than non-smokers.
2. Risk Factors: The risk of developing radon-related lung cancer depends on the concentration of radon in the air and the duration of exposure. The higher the radon levels and the longer the exposure, the greater the risk. Other factors that may influence the risk include smoking, age, and pre-existing respiratory conditions.
3. Indoor Air Quality: Radon is a concern in indoor air, and concentrations can vary widely from one location to another. Homes with basements or lower levels are often at a higher risk because radon can seep in through cracks in the foundation. However, radon can be found in any type of building, including homes, schools, and workplaces.
4. Testing and Mitigation: It's essential to test for radon, particularly in areas with a known risk of radon exposure. Radon testing kits are available, and professional radon measurement services can also be employed. If high levels of radon are detected, mitigation measures can be taken to reduce exposure, such as sealing sump pump lids and foundation and floor cracks or installing radon mitigation systems.
5. Ventilation: Improve ventilation in basements and crawl spaces. Increasing air circulation helps reduce the concentration of radon gas.
6. Choose Radon-Resistant Construction: If you are building a new home or making renovations, consider implementing radon-resistant construction techniques. This may include using radon -resistant materials, including a radon-resistant membrane or gas barrier, and installing a passive radon mitigation system during construction.

In summary, long-term exposure to elevated levels of radon can cause lung cancer. Testing for radon levels in homes and implementing mitigation measures when necessary are crucial steps in minimizing this risk.

If you have concerns about radon in your facility, you can contact Carnow Conibear about performing radon testing.