Kentucky Health Officials Issue Radon Warning
Kentucky Health Officials Issue Radon Warning
Everyone knows the dangers of smoking, but not as many people are aware of the dangers of radon, something health officials in Kentucky are trying to change. David Burton, Environmental Health Program Manager for the Barren River Area Health Department, said, "Scientists feel that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for nonsmokers and the second-leading cause for smokers after active smoking."
Radon is a colorless, odorless, carcinogenic gas that is naturally emitted from the ground. According to Ellen Hahn, a professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing and College of Public Health, Kentucky laws don't do enough to protect homeowners from radon. To make matters worse exposure to cigarette smoke dramatically increases risk.
"If you're exposed to radon and tobacco smoke, either through personal use or second-hand smoke, your risk of lung cancer increases tenfold," says Hahn. The Kentucky Institute for Rural Health is trying to get the word out about Hahn's findings to the public.
Homes that have radon levels of over 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of fresh air need to have a radon mitigation system installed. Homes in Kentucky should be tested regularly to ensure that radon levels don't become unsafe.
Contact your local National Radon Defense dealer to help determine whether your home needs radon mitigation and get professional installation services.
