Experts Increasing Radon Awareness in Southern Illinois
Carterville, IL — Health officials in Southern Illinois are raising awareness about a silent killer.
In June, more than a hundred medical professionals from three states gathered in Carterville, Illinois to learn more about radon exposure and health risks. Officials say raising awareness about the risks of radon could be a critical step toward lowering the number of people in the Southern Illinois region dying from lung cancer.
"Radon is one of the most serious environmental health risks that we face," said Univeristy of Minnesota professor Bill Angell.
Radon is a naturally-occurring, odorless gas produced by uranium decay in rocks and soil. The colorless, radioactive gas is completely undetectable by the human senses and often goes unnoticed. So when radon enters your home through foundation cracks, holes, or any other openings, it is a serious health risk.
"The risk of dying of lung cancer because of radon in your home is one out of 50," said Angell, "So it's an incredibly big risk. "
Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States—second only to cigarette smoke. Radon induced lung cancer kills one person every 25 minutes, joining arsenic, asbestos and benzene as a Class-A Carcinogen.
In Southern Illinois, lung cancer deaths are 30 percent higher than the national rate. Health professionals took part in the radon awareness conference to learn more about the gas and help combat that trend.
"It's very important that everyone test their house. Testing is very easy and very inexpensive," said Calvin Murphy with the Southern Illinois Radon Awareness Task Force.
The Southern Illinois Radon Awareness Task Force estimates 25 percent of homes in Southern Illinois have elevated radon levels, putting any residents at risk for lung cancer. Smokers have even more cause for concern.
It's easier than ever to get your home checked for radon. Woods Basement Systems can help you protect your health and family by providing professional, do-it-yourself test kits. If hazardous radon gas levels are detected, our Radon Mitigation Specialists offer a FREE inspection and quote on the cost of a radon mitigation system in Carbondale, Carterville, Marion, Murphysboro and the Greater St. Louis and Southern Illinois regions. Test your home today!