Q. What is radon?

Radon is a cancer causing, radioactive gas that comes from the decay of radium in the soil, which is a decay product of uranium. Radon is a colorless, odorless, invisible gas that occurs naturally. Chronic exposure to elevated radon levels has been linked to an increased incidence of lung cancer in humans. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high.

Q. What is a radon reduction system?

A radon reduction system is any system or steps designed to reduce radon concentrations in the indoor air of a building. While most components are common, no two systems are identical. Systems must be customized to the needs of your home.

Q. Are radon levels something I really need to be concerned with?

Yes. For most people, radon is their largest source of exposure to nuclear radiation. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Many homes, particularly homes in the upper Midwest, contain radon concentrations that are well above the acceptable limits of 4 pCi/L set forth by the EPA.

Q. What is it about radon that makes it harmful?

When radon and its decay products are inhaled into your lungs, they emit alpha particles. These alpha particles can strike the sensitive lining of the bronchi. When this happens, the cells in your lungs are damaged, subsequently increasing your risk to radon-related cancer. Most alpha particle radiation comes from radon decay products. However, because it is easier to measure radon rather than its decay products, people usually characterize the exposure by the amount of radon in their living spaces.

Q. Is radon-related lung cancer fatal?

Most often, yes. Lung cancer is a disease that has a very poor survival rate. Prevention is the most effective defense. Don't smoke and don't breathe elevated concentrations of radon.