Radon and Health Risks in Boulder County
Radon gas can be found in any building, but homes are the most concerning since that’s where people spend the most time. It can reach indoor concentrations that increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
Radon comes from the natural radioactive breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It is an invisible, odorless, tasteless, cancer-causing gas that enters buildings through the foundation’s numerous cracks, holes, and pipes. It can also enter a building from well water and can be released into a home when the water is used for showers, laundry, and other purposes.
Radon is Prevalent in Boulder County
Radon is prevalent in Colorado and Boulder County.
One out of every two homes in Boulder County has elevated radon levels. The EPA has ranked Boulder County as EPA “Zone 1,” which means the average house will likely exceed the EPA’s action level of 4.0 pCi/L.
Radon Can Cause Cancer
Radon breaks down into radioactive particles that can cause cancer when inhaled. These radioactive particles can damage the cells in our lungs and increase the risk of lung cancer.
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. It is estimated to cause about 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year and about $2 billion in medical expenses and lost productivity. The Iowa Radon Lung Cancer Study tracked nearly 1,000 women who had lived in their homes for more than 20 years. The results of the case-control study (after adjusting for age, smoking, and other factors) indicated that a 20-year exposure to radon levels at the EPA guideline of 4.0 pCi/L yielded an increased lung cancer risk of 50%.
Radon & Smoking Produce a Synergistic Effect
Smokers exposed to high concentrations of radon have an even greater risk of developing lung cancer than those being exposed to either substance individually. The risk of lung cancer from radon gas is estimated to be approximately 10 -15 times greater for persons who smoke cigarettes in comparison with those who have never smoked. Get help to quit using tobacco.
