Radon & Lung Cancer
Understanding the Silent Threat in Your Home.
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It's invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without proper testing. Radon can enter homes through cracks in floors, walls, foundations, and other openings, where it can accumulate to dangerous levels.
Any home, new or old, can have elevated radon levels.
⚠️ Did You Know?
Radon is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second leading cause overall. When inhaled, radioactive particles can damage lung tissue. Long-term exposure significantly increases lung cancer risk.
The good news? Radon exposure is preventable.
How Radon Enters Your Home
-
Cracks in solid floors and walls
-
Construction joints
-
Gaps around service pipes
-
Cavities inside walls
-
Water supply (in some cases)
Health Risks
-
Lung cancer development
-
Risk increases with smoking
-
Long-term exposure is most dangerous
-
No immediate symptoms
-
Effects may take years to appear
Who's at Risk?
-
Anyone exposed to elevated levels
-
Smokers (10x higher risk)
-
People in high-radon areas
-
Those spending time in basements
-
All ages and demographics
Take Action Today!
Testing is the only way to know your radon level. It's easy, inexpensive, and could save your life.
How to Protect Your Family
1
2
3
4
Test Your Home:
Purchase a radon test kit from a hardware store or hire a certified radon professional.
Test kits are inexpensive (typically $10-30) and easy to use.
Understand the Results
The EPA recommends taking action if radon levels are 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Even levels below 4 pCi/L pose some risk.
Fix Your Home if Needed
If levels are elevated, hire a qualified radon mitigation contractor. Systems typically cost $800-2,500 and can reduce levels by up to 99%.
Retest Regularly
Test your home every 2 years and after any renovations. Radon levels can change over time.
Testing Options
Short-term tests: 2-90 days, quick results
Long-term tests: 90+ days, most accurate
Professional testing: Certified experts provide detailed analysis
Mitigation Methods
Active soil depressurization: Most common and effective
Sealing cracks: Helps but not sufficient alone
Ventilation improvements: Increases air exchange
*Certified radon mitigation professionals can evaluate
and fix the issue safely.
For More Information, Visit:
-
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services: Radon | Health & Senior Services
-
Missouri Lung Cancer Coalition: Radon | MO LCC