Everything that our planet is composed of is made out of atoms, and hence, our planet is radioactive. Atoms such as Uranium often cause radiation as they decay. During the decay process, Uranium releases an odorless and colorless gas known as radon.
So, if radon is just an odorless gas, why is it considered dangerous? Below we take a look at why radon is bad for you.
The Effects of Radon On Your Health
Radon, regardless of the numerous contending claims, is not good for our health. Numerous studies have revealed that exposure to radon increases our risk of developing lung cancer.
As stated by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon exposure causes at least 21,000 deaths due to lung cancer each year. In fact, it is the top reason non- smokers often develop lung cancer.
Radon, due to its colorless and odorless nature is hard to detect. However, since it is released by a natural ore, it tends to build up in the air around us. The National Safety Council states that one out of 15 homes in America exhibit high levels of radon.
Homes built on soil that exhibits high levels of Uranium deposits are said to have concentrated amounts of radon in their homes. Hence, radon levels are highest in the lower parts of a house such as a basement.
Notably, radon is a radioactive element that releases radiation in the air around us. As we all know, radiation can and does lead to the development of various cancers.
When we breathe in the gas, we expose our lungs to radiation and damage the cells that line our lungs. The more the cells in our lungs are damaged, the more we are at risk in developing lung cancer. So, yes, radon gas is dangerous and is a serious risk factor to our health.
Now, trying to detect radon gas in your home is quite difficult, since you can neither see nor smell it. Hence, the only way to detect and identify whether the gas is in your home is by conducting a radon test.
How Is Radon Tested For In Your Home?
It is possible to test your home for radon gas. However, there are two ways to do this: either by hiring a professional to conduct radon testing services or by purchasing your own kit and doing it yourself.
If you choose to hire a professional, you ought to look for qualified and certified radon testing companies. Our certified and qualified company, Ernst Home Inspections, conducts high quality and reliable radon testing in Dayton, Ohio. We ensure that we extend our services to residents within the areas of Miami, Clark and Greene just to name a few.
If you do choose to do it yourself, you can either purchase a kit online or from a hardware store.
Normally, the test should come with its own set of instructions on how long it should be conducted. Some, depending on the type of test it is, should only take 48 hours while others, should take at least 90 days. After the duration of conducting the test is over, the next step is to send the test to a laboratory.
You should get the results after a few days. If you find out that your house has high levels of radon gas, be sure to add a vent pipe system. According to the American Cancer Society, installing a fan helps remove the gas from the interior of your house to its exterior.
In conclusion, radon gas is very dangerous and is one of the leading causes of lung cancer, after smoking. Conducting a radon test will help keep you and your family safe. Notably, if you are looking to buy or move into a new house, you should always have it tested for radon gas. Hence, at Ernst Home Inspections, we conduct radon testing for home buyers.