Radon—the Silent Killer Lurking Below

Radon—the Silent Killer Lurking Below

By Dr. Michael Ross, Radiological Health Scientist

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas seeping from soil into homes. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., after smoking (EPA, 2023).

The Risks:

  • Silent Exposure: Radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted.

  • Regional Variance: CDC data shows mountain states like Colorado and Minnesota are in Zone 1 (highest risk) areas.

  • Health Impact: The National Cancer Institute estimates that 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the U.S. are linked to radon exposure.

The Solution:
EPA recommends all homes below the third floor be tested. If levels exceed 4 pCi/L, mitigation systems (sub-slab depressurization) reduce radon by up to 99%.