Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes and buildings, posing a potential health risk to occupants. It comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can build up. It can be present in any building including your home, school, or place of work. In Southwest Colorado, where radon levels can be particularly high due to the region’s geological makeup, it is important for residents to be proactive about testing and managing radon levels in their living spaces.

 

Radon gas decays into radioactive particles. These particles can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe. As they break down further, they release small bursts of energy. This can damage lung tissue and lead to lung cancer over the course of your lifetime. Like other environmental pollutants, the magnitude of radon health risks is somewhat uncertain. However, we know more about radon risks than risks from most other cancer-causing substances. This is because estimates of radon risks are based on studies of cancer in humans.

 

The EPA states that around 1 in 15 homes are exposed to radon levels above the EPA action level. For residents of Colorado, radon poses a much more significant risk. It is estimated by the Department of Public Health that nearly half of all homes in Colorado are exposed to radon above EPA action levels.

 

What are the risks? Over 20,000 deaths a year are attributed to lung cancer due to radon exposure. This can affect both smokers and non-smokers alike, but studies have shown that smoking dramatically increases your risk. It is highly recommended for everyone to get their homes checked, even if a nearby neighbor had theirs tested. Radon levels can vary greatly from home to home, and there are a multitude of factors that can affect exposure.