How do people get lung cancer from radon?
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How do people get lung cancer from radon?
Being exposed to radon for a long period of time can lead to lung cancer. Radon gas in the air breaks down into tiny radioactive elements (radon progeny) that can lodge in the lining of the lungs, where they can give off radiation. This radiation can damage lung cells and eventually lead to lung cancer.
What are the chances of getting lung cancer from radon?
Radon Risk If You Smoke
| Radon Level | If 1,000 people who smoked were exposed to this level over a lifetime*… |
|---|---|
| 4 pCi/L | About 62 people could get lung cancer |
| 2 pCi/L | About 32 people could get lung cancer |
| 1.3 pCi/L | About 20 people could get lung cancer |
| 0.4 pCi/L | About 3 people could get lung cancer |
How does someone get exposed to radon?
People can be exposed to radon primarily from breathing radon in air that comes through cracks and gaps in buildings and homes. Because radon comes naturally from the earth, people are always exposed to it.
Where in the US is the risk of radon exposure highest?
Alaska has the highest radon levels of 10.7 pCi/L.
Who is most at risk of being exposed to radon?
People who do smoke and are exposed to high levels of radon are at even greater risk. It’s estimated that lowering radon levels below 4 pCi/L could reduce lung cancer deaths by 2 to 4 percent , which could save about 5,000 lives.
Where is radon most common in the US?
Here are the 10 US States with the highest average 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)
Is radon common in older homes?
No particular style of home is more likely to have a radon problem; including old homes, new homes, drafty homes, insulated homes, homes with basements, or homes without basements.