Lung health advocates are striving to teach people about an invisible risk that could be lurking in basements across Pennsylvania — radon. Radon is a radioactive gas that is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking. It comes from decaying uranium, which occurs naturally in soil and rocks, and can enter homes through foundation cracks. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, roughly 40% of Pennsylvania homes are estimated to have levels of radon above the federal health guideline. Pennsylvania is above the national average in an analysis by the American Lung Association. Radon tests vary — do-it-yourself home radon tests can be purchased at home improvement centers and hardware stores, and certified testers and laboratories are listed on DEP’s website. High levels of radon can be reduced by installing a radon mitigation system. Read more from WHYY.
Source: WHYY; 1/3/2025