Contrary to popular belief, second-hand smoke is not the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Radon gas is. It is also one of the biggest causes of lung cancer among all people, second only to smoking itself.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declared the week of October 17th - 24th to be National Radon Awareness Week. The EPA estimates that Radon is a problem in nearly 20 percent of American homes.
Radon is a very strong carcinogen and, when inhaled, can cause lung cancer. Smokers exposed to radon are 10 to 12 times more likely to get lung cancer than are non-smokers similarly exposed.
Radon is a gas released from the decay of Radium which exists naturally in the soil, rocks and water beneath building structures. As Radon decays, it produces tiny particles that are just the right size to get into the lungs when breathing.
Because doors and windows are more likely to be closed during winter, spring and fall, these are the most ideal seasons to test for its presence. This is why the EPA chose October 17th - 24th as National Radon Awareness Week and January as National Radon Awareness Month.
You can learn much more here, including how to get your home tested for Radon.
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