What is Radon?

The story of radon goes back as far as the ice age.  Several million years ago glaciers covered the land that we all call home today.   Contained within these glaciers were several minerals and elements.  As the glaciers receded, these substances were left behind and settled in our soil.  One of these elements was Uranium 238.  Over time uranium 238 decomposes and emits a byproduct that we know as radon gas.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is found in the soil under our homes.  It seeps up from the ground through the basement or crawlspace floor.  When we breathe this gas into our lungs, it can cause cancer cells to form. Radon is the second leading cause of Lung Cancer in the United States and long term exposure to high levels of radon increase the risk of acquiring a radon induced lung disease. For more information about radon visit the EPA Radon Website and for more about Radon Induced Lung Cancer, visit CanSar Lung Cancer Survivors