Jan 12, 2015

RADON

January is national Radon action month!

I hope you all decide to take action by getting your homes tested!! Tests can be purchased at the Provo health department in the Environmental office for just 10$ or 5$ if you decide you would like to take a BYU survey regarding Radon (which took me approx. 5 minutes)

What is Radon??

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas. It forms naturally from the decay of radioactive elements, such as uranium, which are found at different levels in soil and rock throughout the world. Often times we build on areas where radon is escaping the soil, this gas can become trapped inside our homes and cause serious health problems. It is estimated that 1 in 3 homes have elevated radon levels!

What can radon do to me and my family??

  • ·         Long-term exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer.
  • ·         Respiratory diseases, especially pulmonary fibrosis (scar tissue forming in the lungs that leads to shortness of breath).
  • ·         Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (this includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis).
  • ·         Some studies have also linked Radon exposure with the development of multiple sclerosis.
  • ·         Some scientist suggests there might be a link between radon exposure and the development of Leukemia in children.

GET YOUR HOME TESTED!!!!!!!!
Resources for tests as well as solutions to dealing with high radon levels in your home can be found on the link below