Radon is estimated to cause thousands of deaths per year.  It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States; smoking remains the primary cause.  It is estimated to be a health risk in as many as one in fifteen homes through out the country.  It is deadly, and its health risks grow dramatically with the length of exposure and with cigarette smoking.

What is Radon? Radon is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas that occurs naturally in soil, rock and water.  It is formed by the natural breakdown of radium, which is a radioactive product of decaying uranium.  As radon decays into radioactive particles and is inhaled into the lungs, energy is released that can damage sensitive lung tissue and lead to lung cancer.  The small bursts of energy released from particles trapped in the lungs are like being exposed to hundreds of chest x-rays every year.  The longer your exposure or the higher the level of radon in your home, the greater the risk.  The amount of radon in the air is measured on picocuries per liter of air.

Where is Radon Found? High levels of radon have been found in every state.  Radon gas rises up through porous soil under a home or building and enters through gaps and cracks in the foundation and through pipes, drains, walls or other openings.

How can you Protect yourself from Radon? Testing is easy and inexpensive.   The Minnesota Department of Health may be contacted at 651-215-0909 or 800-798-5090. Once a radon problem has been identified, it can be corrected.  Most homes can be fixed for the same cost as other common home repairs, approximately $500 to $2,500.  To reduce radon levels, always consult EPA-qualified or state-certified radon contractors.