Education

Radon Action Month

Posted on by Tina Stennes
16
Jan

Radon Action Month: A Simple Step That Can Help Prevent Lung Cancer 

January is Radon Action Month, a time to raise awareness about a hidden danger that can increase the risk of lung cancer. Radon is invisible, odorless and one of the leading causes of lung cancer.

The good news? Radon is easy to test for, and high levels can be fixed. 

What Is Radon? 

Radon is a natural gas that comes from the ground. It can enter homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations. Once inside, it can build up to unsafe levels — especially in basements and lower levels of buildings. 

You can’t see, smell, or taste radon. The only way to know if it’s in your home is to test. 

Why Radon Matters for Lung Cancer 

  • Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. 
  • It is the number one cause of lung cancer in people who have never smoked. 
  • Radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year in the U.S. 

When radon gas is breathed in over time, it damages the lungs. Lung cancer caused by radon often appears years later, which is why prevention is so important. 

Who Is at Risk? 

Everyone is at risk — regardless of where you live or what kind of home you have. 

  • Homes in all 50 states can have high radon levels. 
  • Old homes and new homes can both be affected. 
  • Smoking greatly increases the risk, but non-smokers can also develop lung cancer from radon. 

What You Can Do This Radon Action Month 

1. Test Your Home

  • Radon test kits are low-cost, easy to use, and widely available. 
  • Many local health departments offer free or discounted test kits in January. 
  • Test the lowest level of your home where people spend time. 

2. Know the Number

  • Radon is measured as a number.
  • If your result is 4.0 or higher, action is recommended. 
  • Even lower levels still carry some risk, especially for children. 

3. Fix High Radon Levels

  • A certified radon professional can install a system to safely vent radon out of your home. 
  • These systems are effective and long-lasting. 
  • Always test again after fixing the problem. 

4. Retest Over Time

  • Radon levels can change. 
  • Test every few years, or after home renovations or foundation changes. 

5. Talk About Radon – Awareness Saves Lives

  • Share information with family, friends, and neighbors. 
  • Encourage schools, childcare centers, and workplaces to test. 

More Resources

EPA: What is Radon?

CDC: Protect Your Home from Radon

WHO: Global Action on Radon

Minnesota Department of Health: Radon Information

Tina Stennes