Invisible But Deadly: The Science, The Risk, and The Fix

Radon is a radioactive gas that causes over 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the US every year. But testing is simple, affordable, and effective. Learn how radon enters your home, why it's dangerous, and how you can take control.

Lung Cancer and Radon: What You Should Know

 Radon Basics

• Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Especially dangerous for non-smokers and babies. It has no early symptoms. Most people don’t know they’re sick until it’s advanced

• You can’t see, smell, or taste radon but it can kill you. Only testing can tell you if it’s in your home. 

• Radon comes from rock and soil, especially granite. If you live on bedrock or in a basement, test regularly.

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 Home Awareness

• Radon is heavier than air so it builds up in basements. No ventilation? No escape.

• Rainy days = radon spikes.  Ventilate your home more after storms.

• Your house’s materials matter. Concrete, brick, and stone can all release radon.

• Well water can carry radon too. Especially in rural areas you need to test both air and water.

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Science in a Snap

• Radon causes cancer when inhaled not through your skin. Alpha radiation damages lung tissue directly.

• There’s no “safe” level of radon. Even one radon particle can cause a double-strand DNA break. That one break if improperly repaired can begin a cancer. More exposure = more risk.

• Alpha particles from radon can’t pass through skin but your lungs are wide open.

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 Action Steps

• Don’t guess. Test. Radon detectors are under $25. Just set it, ship it, and get results.

• Live in a basement? Get a radon test. And don’t sleep down there unless it’s been sealed.

• Outside radon is harmless. Inside radon is not. Ventilation is your #1 defense.

• You don’t need to panic, you just need to test. Fixes are easy, cheap, and life-saving.

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 Region Matters

• Radon risk varies by region. Check your local map. Some soil has more uranium = more radon. National averages don’t tell the whole story. Your street might be high-risk even if your city isn’t.

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