Radon's Health Risks

FACT SHEET | RADON

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the number one cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, radon is responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths each year.

 

When radon gas decays, it forms other radioactive particles that are suspended in the air. By breathing radon-contaminated air, these particles can be inhaled and trapped in the lungs. As these particles decay inside the lungs they release small bursts of energy which can cause damage to lung tissue and increase a person's risk of lung cancer.

Not everyone exposed to elevated levels of radon will develop lung cancer, and the time between exposure and the onset of the disease may be many years. Your chances of getting lung cancer from radon largely depend on how much radon is in your home, the amount of time you spend in your home and whether you are a current or former smoker. The combination of smoking and elevated radon levels is an especially serious health risk. By quitting smoking and lowering the elevated radon level in your home, you can substantially reduce your risk of getting lung cancer.

 

Call the New York State Department of Health's Radon Program at 1-800-458-1158 for more information about how to reduce your health risk from radon.



Contact CNY Coalition For Healthy Indoor Air today to learn more.

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