Recommended Steps to Reduce Radon Exposure and Cancer Risk
Seal or ventilate basements to prevent radon entry, and test your home for radon levels—if elevated above recommended limits, implement professional radon reduction systems immediately. 1
Understanding the Risk
Radon is responsible for 15,000-20,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the United States, making it the leading cause of lung cancer in never-smokers and the second leading cause in smokers. 1 The relationship between radon levels and lung cancer risk is linear, meaning any detectable radon carries some risk. 1, 2
The synergistic effect between smoking and radon exposure is multiplicative, not additive—smokers exposed to radon face substantially greater cancer risk than either exposure alone. 1, 3
Specific Mitigation Steps
Primary Prevention Measures
Seal basement entry points where soil-derived radon gas enters buildings, as radon is a ubiquitous indoor air pollutant that accumulates in lower levels of homes. 1
Install basement ventilation systems to prevent radon accumulation in enclosed spaces where concentrations are highest. 1
Test all homes for radon levels, particularly in radon-prone geographic areas, as average residential exposures show a direct relationship with lung cancer risk despite being lower than occupational exposures. 1
When Testing Shows Elevated Levels
Implement professional radon reduction methods when testing reveals levels above EPA-recommended action limits (4 pCi/L). 1
Prioritize mitigation in new construction versus existing structures, as prevention strategies differ based on building phase and whether structures are public or private. 1
Critical Risk Modification
- Smoking cessation is the single most important intervention for anyone with radon exposure, given the multiplicative carcinogenic effect when combined with tobacco. 3, 4 This is paramount because radon acts as an independent risk factor that is dramatically potentiated by cigarette smoking. 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not assume low radon levels are safe—the exposure-response relationship is linear with no safe threshold, and even average US home levels (1.5-4 pCi/L) carry some lung cancer risk. 1, 2
Do not delay testing in homes without basements—while radon concentrations are highest in lower levels, all enclosed spaces can accumulate this colorless, odorless gas. 1
Do not rely solely on geographic radon maps—individual home testing is essential because radon levels vary significantly between neighboring properties based on soil composition and building characteristics. 1
Public Health Considerations
Education about radon is positively associated with home testing behavior, with real estate agents and home inspectors serving as the most common information sources. 5 States with radon notification policies show twice the awareness rates compared to states without such policies. 5
Reducing radon in all homes exceeding EPA action levels could prevent 2-4% of lung cancer deaths, with the greatest impact on never-smokers where radon accounts for 30% of lung cancer deaths. 2