Is radon The number one cause of lung cancer?
Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to EPA estimates. Overall, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year. About 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked.
What are the symptoms of radon exposure?
Possible symptoms include shortness of breath (difficulty breathing), a new or worsening cough, pain or tightness in the chest, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing. If you smoke and you know you’ve been exposed to high levels of radon, it’s very important to quit smoking.
Where is radon most prevalent?
Radon levels are usually higher in basements, cellars and living spaces in contact with the ground. However, considerable radon concentration can also be found above the ground floor.
What do you do about radon?
What to do if your home has high levels
- Seal and caulk foundation cracks and openings to help reduce the amount of radon that can enter.
- Install a soil suction radon reduction system, also known as vent pipe and fan system.
- Create a gas-permeable layer beneath the slab or flooring.
- Install plastic sheeting.
What is the biggest health risk associated with radon?
Over a long time, that can damage the cells there and lead to lung cancer. Radon is the second biggest cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking. If you breathe a lot of radon and smoke, your chance of getting lung cancer is very high. About 21,000 people die each year from lung cancer related to radon.
Can radon cure cancer?
Summarizing the above, radon therapy may be used for various cancer treatments not only as a primary therapy but also as an adjuvant therapy and in combination therapies with conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
What state has the highest radon?
Alaska
Alaska has the highest radon levels of 10.7 pCi/L. Homeowners in Alaska are encouraged to test for radon every two years….Here are the 10 states with the highest Radon levels:
- Alaska (10.7)
- South Dakota (9.6)
- Pennsylvania (8.6)
- Ohio (7.8)
- Washington (7.5)
- Kentucky (7.4)
- Montana (7.4)
- Idaho (7.3)
Can radon cause other cancers?
However, radon is also thought to cause a significant number of lung cancer deaths among people who don’t smoke in the United States each year. Some studies have suggested that radon exposure may be linked to other types of cancer as well, such as childhood leukemia.
Can radon cause headaches?
The only known health effect of radon is an increased risk of lung cancer. Radon does not cause any warning symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, or skin rashes. If you are suffering from those symptoms or other physical ailments, you should consult your physician.