Radon Environmental Health Problem
By Jean Hampton
Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless, colorless gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in rock, soil and water. This gas can enter buildings through cracks or openings in the foundation. The gas decays into radioactive solids that attach to dust, aerosols and smoke particles in the air. They can be inhaled and have been linked to lung cancer.
Radon has been identified as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., second only to smoking. Based on current statistics, indoor radon has been deemed the most serious environmental carcinogen contributing to as many as 20,000 lung cancer fatalities each year. Some scientific studies indicate that children may be more sensitive to radon, perhaps due to their rapidly dividing cells and higher respiration rate.
Every home should be tested for radon regardless of the age of the structure, location or foundation type. Practically all counties in the U.S. have homes with elevated radon levels. The Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.E.P.A.) and the Surgeon General’s Office urge widespread testing for radon. The Coastal and Pee Dee regions of South Carolina are fortunately listed as one of the areas that are in the low range for radon levels, but residents need to be aware of the dangers.
For further information visit these websites: Environmental Protection Agency, World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
