We've had a lot of time indoors this year, which has given us a lot to think about. Many of us have thought about future renovations and planned out our next home improvements, but one thing that is sometimes overlooked is the impact of Radon Gases in your home. Here's everything you need to know about Radon and why you should have your house tested:
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that results from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is odourless and tasteless. When radon is discharged into the air from the earth, it is diluted and is not a health hazard. It can, however, build up to dangerous amounts in enclosed environments such as dwellings.High radon levels can endanger your and your family's health.
When radon gas is inhaled, it breaks down into radioactive particles that emit short bursts of energy. The energy is absorbed by surrounding lung tissue, causing lung cells to be damaged. When cells are damaged, they have the ability to multiply and cause cancer.
In nonsmokers, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer. Indoor air with high levels of radon has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. The risk of cancer is determined by the amount of radon present and the length of time a person is exposed to it.
The combination of radon exposure and cigarette usage can dramatically raise your risk of lung cancer. For example, if you have been a longtime smoker, you have a one-in-ten chance of developing lung cancer. When you combine long-term radon exposure with a high level of radon, your risk rises to one in three. At the same high radon level, your lifetime lung cancer risk as a nonsmoker is 1 in 20.
Call Arc Elements today at 3062905131 for more information on having your house tested for radon. We'll be pleased to answer any questions you have about the process.
