It is challenging to navigate the numerous health risks that are constantly being highlighted in the news.
It gets to the point where each fad our media chooses to broadcast becomes a new topic for concern which often dilutes the real risks that we should act on to stay healthy.
Radon exposure is one of the real risks especially if you live in an area that has high concentrations.
To determine this visit the EPA website search under Radon and click on your state.
We live in Atlanta Georgia which is in a red zone that expands out to the north, east and west several hundred miles due to a natural phenomenon called Stone Mountain which is composed of an extremely large chunk of granite rock.
Radon gas is a bi-product of the breakdown of granite and enters the home from the ground through either your basement or sub-floor.
Regardless of whether your home is new, old, with a basement, crawlspace or without your are at risk (mainly if you are in a high concentration area according to the EPA map) for exposure as ground gasses including radon when present are constantly being sucked/ pulled from the ground each time an appliance goes on, a window opened or a HVAC unit kicks in.
It can be helpful to think of your house like a huge vacuum that sucks the ground for air.
Radon is radiation in the most basic sense so think about the lead vest you put on at the dentist or exam room this is to reduce your risk from one small exposure to radon.
Living in a home with radon levels over 4.
0pCi (one in three are thought to be well over this level in North Georgia) can be like getting x-rayed 100's of times over daily.
It is also the first leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and second leading cause in smokers.
Lung cancer being one of the most deadly cancers creates further concern.
The good thing is you can reduce your exposure if you know your homes radon levels.
Radon being colorless and odorless the only way to know your risk is to have your home or office tested.
Many start by purchasing a DIY radon test from a hardware store for around $35.
00.
(Read and follow the instructions carefully adhering strongly to them and perform if possible in dry weather).
If the results come back high you can follow up by having a certified NRPP radon tester or professional home inspector for a second opinion.
If the results are above 4.
0 PcI mitigation is recommended.
Radon Mitigation is the process of removing radon from the home.
This in general this is performed by creating a negative pressure field or suck that is stronger than your "house vacuum" that will draw out the cancer causing gas before entering your home.
If you find your home tests above your comfort level find a Certified NRPP Mitigation Company that will provide a guaranteed results.
If this is the only cancer prevention you do this is one that most likely will save your life and it takes no lifestyle change just a little testing and remediation.