Exposure to the poisonous gas radon is extremely hazardous to your heath, and even more so because radon is colorless and odorless. This means that it is up to you to be proactive about detecting radon levels in your home, and determining when it is time to call in the experts for radon testing, radon mitigation or radon abatement. Stay attuned to how you and your family feel, and don’t eliminate the possibility that health problems could be caused by radon gas poisoning.
Radon is a known carcinogen, since it is a radioactive element produced from decaying uranium. The ionizing radiation can modify DNA, causing mutations and other harmful side effects. Most of the effects of this gas are seen in the lungs — and the scariest part is that there are very few physical symptoms that are exclusive to radon poisoning.
Indeed, radon exposure is the second-leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. A combination of the two makes it much more likely that one will develop lung cancer. If there is a cluster of lung cancer cases in your area, it might be a sign of high radon levels in public buildings or buildings and homes built at the same time. Help protect your health and the health of your community members by asking to bring in a radon testing company.
The best thing you can do is understand your risk and get your home tested. Once you know what the levels of radon are in your home, you can figure out how to hire a radon mitigation company. Make sure to ask about their insurance and certification, and to ask for active dehumidification systems. You want as much fresh air circulating in your home, while at the same time preventing mold and other problems that could cause negative health and structural effects.
Don’t wait — get your home tested for radon, along with other carcinogens and contaminants, before you even move in, if possible. If you buy or live in a very old home, the chances that you or your family will be negatively affected by things like radon, asbestos, and other chemicals is much greater.
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