High radon levels have been found in every state, including Arizona. Radon can be a problem in all types of homes, including old homes, new homes, drafty homes, insulated homes, homes with basements, and homes without basements. Local geology, construction materials, and how the home was built are among the factors that can affect radon levels in homes. In Arizona, homes built with return air ducts below ground are of particular concern as radon gas from below the slab is spread throughout a home by the ventilation system. The only way to know a home's radon level is to test.


Continuous exposure to radon has been linked with the development of serious health problems. Radon is estimated to be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. behind cigarette smoking. According to a report by the National Academy of Sciences called "Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation: The Health Effects of Exposure to Indoor Radon," radon causes between 15,000 and 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States and 12 percent of all cancer deaths are linked to radon. The EPA puts the number of radon related cancer deaths as high as 30,000 annually.

The risk of lung cancer is even higher for someone who smokes or is exposed to secondhand smoke and prolonged radon exposure. The risk of radon-associated lung cancer is 1,200% higher for smokers than nonsmokers.


Fortunately, health problems resulting from radon exposure can be prevented by removing or venting radon from your living or working environment. Levels of radon can be greatly reduced in homes and work environments either by preventing radon from entering the building or by venting the radon out of the building. It is important to have a certified company, like Radon Control Services Inc., help in following the guidelines set up by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency when venting the radon from your home or office.