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>Environmental Health >Indoor Air >Radon >FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why is radon dangerous? Exposure to radon is dangerous because some of radon's decay products revert to a solid form and can become lodged in lung tissue. Such damage may lead to lung cancer.

Who can test a building for radon? Anyone can test their house with an over the counter test kit. The kits are available at home improvement stores and can be ordered online.

What homes should be tested for radon? All homes should be tested, except residences above the second floor in a multi-level building. Radon levels can vary from house to house and even from room to room.

Can a radon problem be fixed? Yes, if radon levels are low, ventilation and sealing of cracks on the floor may solve the problem. Other situations may require soil depressurization which can be costly.

Are there any symptoms associated with radon exposure? There are no immediate symptoms of radon exposure.

Are there any health risks associated with exposure to radon? Yes, about 12% of lung cancers are believed to be from radon exposure. Smokers are at a higher risk of developing radon-induced lung cancer.

Do I need to worry about radiation contamination of household objects? No, radon in the home cannot lead to contamination of carpets, furnishings, or household objects.