Number One Cause of Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers…Radon
Radon
In 2005 the U.S. Surgeon General issued a national health advisory to highlight the seriousness radon. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second leading cause of cancer in the United States. It is responsible for more than 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year.
Did you know according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Northern Virginia is considered a part of the “red zone” for high levels of radon gas emitted from the soil? So what is radon and how can you protect yourself?
What is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. The radioactive gas then gets into the air you breath and the water you drink. Most commonly, radon moves up through the ground into the air and through cracks in a home’s foundation. Similar to carbon monoxide, you cannot see, smell, or taste radon. Every home is susceptible to it, even brand new homes or homes without basements. The good news is there are methods to mitigate the problem and lower radon to acceptable levels in your home.
How to Test for Radon
The EPA, Surgeon General, and the American Lung Association all recommend radon testing. Testing is the only way to find out your home’s radon level. A radon inspector, like Commonwealth Home Services, will setup a controlled test to sample the gas concentration levels in the air over a 48 hour period.
We recommend testing your home’s level before putting it up for sale, especially in Northern Virginia where radon is so prevalent. Save the test results for potential buyers and install a mitigation system, if necessary. This could be a positive selling point!
For home buyers, ask the seller for radon test results, or information on the mitigation system if one is present. If the seller cannot provide any information we recommend having a radon inspection performed along with your home inspection.
Protect Yourself from Radon
There are a few options to reduce high levels of radon if detected in the home. Often times the buyer will ask the seller to pay for a mitigation system if high levels are found as part of a home inspection. These systems are extremely effective at lowering radon levels and cost on average $1,500 to install.
