Radon #
Radon is one of the most common indoor pollution sources, and it has been linked to lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer, after cigarette smoking. It is classified as a Group A carcinogen, and over 20,000 people die from radon-related lung cancer each year. Radon is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and it is extremely dangerous. If you are concerned about its presence in your home, here are a few ways to protect yourself:
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can be found in most homes. This gas is vaporized at room temperature and pressure, and it can easily get into a building’s air. Its radioactivity is measured in picocuries, and it has been found in a wide range of indoor pollution sources. Radon is also present in pressed wood products such as wood veneers, wood particles, and wood fibers. As radon decays, its products are breathed into the lungs and continue to release radiation.
Radon is also found in tobacco smoke, another indoor air pollutant described in our FAQ.