Health Effects of Radon
Radon decays into radioactive particles that get trapped in your lungs. Those radioactive particles decay FIVE more times within 2 hours! Each time they give off radioactive bursts of energy that can damage the lung tissue. Even a very small amount of radon can produce alpha particles that penetrate cells, causing irreparable damage. This can lead to lung cancer. According to the EPA it is estimated that Radon causes 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year. This can be prevented by testing for Radon levels in your home. Once tested you can then call a qualified and certified professional to help mitigate the Radon from your home.
Risks in Illinois
Here in Northern Illinois we live in an area of higher levels of Radon in our soils. Here is a map of Illinois from the EPA's website that shows which counties are at a higher risk level. But don't be fooled. Even in areas of the country where there is a much lower risk, homes can still have high levels of Radon. Regardless of the region you live in, you should have your home tested. The only way to know if your home has a high level of Radon is to test for it.
Children and Radon
In studies that have been done, researchers have stated that radon can have more of a health effect on children because of the fact that they are still growing and developing. This is why the Illinois lawmakers have passed a law in 2013 stating that all day care centers must be tested for Radon to be certified.
Children and Radon
In studies that have been done, researchers have stated that radon can have more of a health effect on children because of the fact that they are still growing and developing. This is why the Illinois lawmakers have passed a law in 2013 stating that all day care centers must be tested for Radon to be certified.
Smokers
People that smoke have exponential health risks when Radon is present in their home! Studies have found that smokers who live in homes with even low levels of Radon (less than 4.0 pCi/L) have almost 10 times the risk. And at higher levels of Radon the risk goes even higher yet.