January Is Radon Action Month: Take Control of Your Home's Air Quality

Radon gas is a silent threat that significantly contributes to lung cancer cases each year. As we observe Radon Action Month, it's crucial to understand how this invisible gas affects health and the steps you can take to protect your loved ones.

Causes of Lung Cancer

Smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for nearly 9 out of 10 cases. Exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk by 20–30%. Other contributors include radon gas exposure, air pollution, and genetic factors, affecting both smokers and non-smokers. The fact that many non-smokers develop lung cancer underscores the importance of addressing preventable risks like radon exposure for everyone.

Radon: The Second Leading Cause of Lung Cancer

Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., causing approximately 21,000 deaths annually. This odorless, tasteless gas is released from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It can seep into homes and buildings, and prolonged exposure to high levels increases the risk of lung cancer. Testing is the only way to detect radon in your home, making it an essential step for every homeowner.

Colorado's Radon and Cancer Statistics

• Average Indoor Radon Level in Colorado: 6.3 pCi/L, compared to the national average of 1.3 pCi/L.

  Colorado State University Extension

• Homes with High Radon Levels: Approximately 50% of homes in Colorado have radon levels exceeding the EPA's action level of 4 pCi/L.

  Colorado Geological Survey

• Health Impact: Living in a home with Colorado's average radon level (6.4 pCi/L) is comparable to undergoing 200 chest X-rays annually.

  Environmental Protection Agency

How Radon Enters Homes

Radon can infiltrate your home through:

• Cracks and gaps in the foundation

• Construction joints

• Openings around service pipes

• Wall cavities

• Water supply

Protecting Your Home from Radon

Testing your home for radon is simple and cost-effective. If your test results show levels of 4 pCi/L or higher, installing a radon mitigation system can significantly reduce the gas concentration. In Colorado, the average indoor radon level is estimated to be about 6.3 pCi/L, which is higher than the national average.

Take Action This Radon Action Month

Radon Action Month is the perfect time to test your home and reduce the risks associated with radon exposure. By taking preventive measures now, you can help protect your family's health for years to come.

For professional radon testing and mitigation services in Colorado, consider contacting Purple Mountain Radon, a veteran-owned company serving Greater Colorado Springs and Woodland Park. They offer:

• Radon Mitigation

• Radon Testing

• Indoor Air Quality Services

Their team is dedicated to providing effective solutions to ensure your home's air quality is safe.

For more information on radon testing and mitigation in Colorado, visit the EPA's radon page or contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

Protect your home and loved ones by taking action against radon today.