Radon Health Risks

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, responsible for thousands of deaths each year. When you breathe air containing radon, radioactive particles can get trapped in your lungs. Over time, these particles increase the risk of developing lung cancer.

People who smoke and are exposed to elevated radon levels have a much higher risk of developing lung cancer. However, radon is also a significant risk for non-smokers. The risk increases with higher radon levels and longer periods of exposure.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General strongly recommend testing your home for radon and taking action to reduce high levels. Reducing radon exposure is important for everyone, especially for children, the elderly, and those who spend a lot of time indoors.

EPA risk assessment data from radon exposure is based on a lifetime of exposure.

• Not everyone exposed to even high levels of radon will contract radon induced lung cancer.
• All radon levels can be lowered, which lowers the risk assessment.

Lung Cancer incidence from radon exposure is so prevalent that risk assessment is stated in terms of one in 1,000. Other environmental exposures are stated in measurements of one in 100,000.

The following video from the State of Tennessee gives an overview of Radon Health Risks: