January is National Radon Action Month

Did you know that exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking? Is your house safe? Now is the time to check. January is National Radon Action Month. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, radon exposure accounts for 7,000 to 30,000 deaths annually.

Radon is an invisible and odorless gas that occurs naturally in soil and rock. It disperses harmlessly outdoors but when it enters your home through holes and cracks in the basement floor and walls  or from well water, it can be a health hazard. Prolonged exposure to radon can cause lung cancer. The only way to know if your home has unhealthy levels of radon is to perform a simple test. The American Lung Association is offering radon test kits for $12. This includes tax, postage and handling, test results, and telephone counseling if you have questions. Since smokers are at a much greater risk of developing lung cancer if radon is present, information on quitting smoking will also be included.

To purchase your kit, call 1-800-LUNG USA or visit lungne.org. For health questions about radon, call the Lung Helpline at 1-800-LUNG USA and select option 2.