Myth:
Scientists aren't sure radon really is a problem.
Fact:
Although some scientists dispute the precise number of deaths due to radon, all major health organizations (like the Centers for Disease Control, the American Lung Association and the American Medical Association) agree with estimates that radon causes thousands of preventable lung cancer deaths every year. In fact, radon gas is a Class 1 carcinogen and is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer. This is especially true among smokers, since the risk to smokers is much greater than to non-smokers because in addition to dust particles, the airborne radon attaches itself to smoke particles to enter the lungs.
Myth:
Homes with radon problems can't be fixed.
Fact:
There are simple solutions to radon problems in homes. Thousands of homeowners have already fixed radon problems in their homes. Radon levels can be readily lowered for about $500 to $2,500. Use only qualified mitigation companies that have met EPA guidelines for mitigation training.
Myth:
Radon only affects certain kinds of homes.
Fact:
House construction can affect radon levels. However, radon can be a problem in homes of all types: old homes, new homes, drafty homes, insulated homes, homes with basements and homes without basements.
Myth:
Elevated radon levels in schools are not really a concern.
Fact:
Schools should be mitigated just like homes because there are risks associated with all levels of radon exposure. If your child's school has not been tested, encourage them to do so. If the levels are elevated, school officials should take steps to lower the radon to acceptable levels. But don't forget to have your home tested since that is where you spend the largest part of your day and night.
Myth:
Radon is only a problem in certain parts of the country.
Fact:
High radon levels have been found in every state. However, radon problems do vary from area to area, but the only way to know your radon level is to test.
Myth:
A neighbor's test result is a good indication of whether your home has a problem.
Fact:
It's not. Radon levels vary from home to home. Many things contribute to elevated levels in a home: The concentration of radon in the subsurface under the home, the number and size of entry points into the home, the energy efficiency of the home. A home that holds in heat and air conditioning well will also retain more radon. Don't rely on the results your neighbor got. The only way to know if your home has a radon problem is to test it.
