
Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second leading cause in smokers, so it’s critical to know how to avoid prolonged exposure to it. You can be exposed to radon in just about every corner of Utah, and we’re here to help you understand common locations where people receive the most exposure.
Homes are the most common place people are exposed to radon because people spend a lot of time there and often have bedrooms on the lowest level. Radon is at its highest concentration on the lowest level of the home, which means those who spend a lot of time on that floor are at greatest risk. Additionally, people don’t always move homes frequently, which prolongs the time someone may be exposed to high radon levels if they don’t proactively test.
Second to homes, people spend a lot of time in the workplace and may breathe in concentrated levels of radon if the building hasn’t been tested and mitigated. Workplaces can often fly under the radar because radon testing is most encouraged in homes. However, you should strongly consider testing your workplace if you are a business owner.
Schools are another location that often fly under the radar for radon exposure. Elementary schools may be particularly insidious locations if they have high radon because children have a higher respiratory rate than adults, which means they may breathe in more radon over time. We encourage all parents to request that their child’s school tests for radon.
Radon is deadly, but a terminal diagnosis can be prevented by proactively testing. The U.S. Surgeon General and leading health organizations recommend testing your home for radon every two years. You can click here to request a free test today.