KANSAS
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT
BILL GRAVES, GOVERNOR
Gary R. Mitchell, Secretary
For Immediate Release
Contact: Michelle Strong, 785-296-1567
Radon is No. 2 Preventable Cause of Lung Cancer, Says Report
Governor Graves Proclaims October 18-24 as Radon Action Week
A national report just released provides what may be the most conclusive evidence yet of a link between high levels of radon exposure and lung cancer. The report, the sixth Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiations (BIER VI) Committee report by the National Research Council, also points to indoor radon as the second leading preventable cause of lung cancer in the United States.State public health and environmental officials are urging Kansans to test their homes and private water wells for high levels of radon. Governor Graves has signed a proclamation dedicating October 18-24 as Radon Action Week in Kansas.
"The BIER VI report sends a compelling message," said Secretary of Health and Environment Gary R. Mitchell. "We should all test our homes for high radon levels, and do whatever we can limit excess exposure."
Radon occurs naturally underground in many areas. Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that can enter a home or other structure through openings in the foundation. A radon level of 4 pCi/l or lower, as indicated by a radon test kit, is considered low-risk. Chronic exposure to higher levels can lead to problems, say environmental health officials.
"Most people spend a significant amount of their time indoors at home," said Michelle Strong, radon coordinator for the State of Kansas. "Because chronic exposure to high radon levels puts people at risk, everyone should test their homes for high levels of radon."
Strong also said that smokers face an increased risk of lung cancer from radon exposure compared to nonsmokers.
A radon test kit costs $5 to $15 and is easy to use. Kits are available through county extension offices and specialty suppliers. If radon levels in excess of 4 pCi/l are detected repeatedly in a series of tests, or if a very high level is detected in one test, KDHE recommends that homeowners consult a certified radon contractor. Radon levels can vary greatly from day to day, and from one home to another, even if they are next door.
The potential for health problems posed by radon exists throughout the United States. In Kansas, about 37 percent of home tests have exceeded the 4 pCi/l level. The highest radon reading recorded in Kansas to date is 204 pCi/l. It is estimated that indoor radon may contribute to as many as 120 lung cancer deaths per year in Kansas.
If you have questions about radon, contact the KDHE Radiation Section at
1-800-693-5343 or www.kdheks.gov/radiation. Click the link to the National Radon Proficiency Program to view a list of certified radon contractors in Kansas. The national Radon Hotline number is 1-800-SOS-RADON.