Radon is a colorless, odorless gas formed by the natural decay of the radioactive elements thorium and uranium. When trapped in an enclosed space, such as a crawl space or basement, radon can build to toxic levels and greatly increase your chances of developing lung cancer. Fortunately, there are a number of methods available to detect radon and remove dangerous concentrations of the gas.
Radon Sources
Radon is an intermediate breakdown product of both uranium and thorium, according the Department of Health and Human Services' Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, or ATSDR. Both of these elements go through numerous stages during decay, and in addition to radon they produce the radioactive element radium. Most sources of water, rock and soil contain at least some amount of uranium or thorium, which means that these substances also often contain radon, the ATSDR explains.
Radon Characteristics
Radon belongs to a class of substances called noble gases, which have a characteristic ability to release any chemical bonds that attach them to other substances, the ATSDR reports. This quality gives radon enough independence and mobility to penetrate groundwater sources or reach the air. Radon itself breaks down relatively quickly, producing related radioactive atoms called radon progeny, the ATSDR notes. A typical sample of radon actually contains a mixture of radon and radon progeny.
Radon Buildup
Radon exposure causes roughly 21,000 deaths each year, and ranks only behind smoking as a source of lung cancer, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Because of the widespread distribution of the gas, radon accumulations can occur in buildings and structures throughout the United States. Potential entry points for radon in your home include cracks or other holes in your home's foundation, gaps around service pipes or in suspended walls, cracks in walls and your water supply.
Radon in Water
Water-related radon risks typically come from groundwater rather than surface water, the EPA explains. Exposure usually happens when you inhale radon gas while showering or while performing other household activities. While you may have some stomach cancer risks from drinking contaminated water, these are generally small when compared to lung cancer risks from inhalation.
Radon Detection
You can detect the presence of radon in your home with specially-designed radon kits, the EPA reports. Some types of home testing kits are available at hardware stores or through mail order, while other types are used by radon elimination specialists who can help you evaluate any dangers in your home. If the radon concentrations in your home are equal to or greater than 4 pico curies per liter of air, or pCi/L, you will need to lower your exposure to avoid an increased cancer risk.
Radon Removal
You can remove radon gas from your home by trapping it and venting it back outside with fans or blowers, the EPA notes. You can also prevent or lower radon exposure by repairing any known cracks in your walls or foundations. If there is radon in your drinking water, you can eliminate it either before it enters your home or with traps attached to water spigots inside your home.
