Radon is the second leading cause for lung cancer

ILLINOIS (KBSI) – January is Radon action and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency of Homeland Security says residents should take the time to have their home tested. 

“Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from uranium in our soil. Uranium is a natural component of the mineral rich soil that we have here in Illinois and its radioactive.” Says Melinda Enstrom, a Radon specialist for the Illinois Emergency Management Agency of Homeland Security.

Enstrom says gas can seep into the foundation and over time building up a toxic level of Radon in your home without you ever knowing. Radon has no odor, taste or smell. There’s no way to tell if it’s in your home without having your home tested. Radon causes lung cancer, and in Illinois it is now the second largest reason for lung cancer.  

21,000 deaths linked to Radon exposure happen each year in the US, and Illinois has seen a significant rise in Radon detections in 2023. To have your home tested you can purchase Radon test kits at most hardware stores.

If you find radon in your home Enstrom says you can have it removed. 

“Its something that can be easily remedied so, um so it does require a licensed professional to come in and install is a fan and piping system that runs underneath the foundation of them home and will help deter the radon before it even enters it.” 

You can also call the Illinois Radon hotline number (1-800-325-1425) to order test kits or find a Radon specialist near you.