Newsweek and other major outlets are reporting a study by Oregon State university that links radon gas and childhood cancer, specifically Leukemia. The data spans over 18 years and includes radon concentration exposures far under the EPA action level. More and more statistical modeling research is showing the EPA action level as quite high. I’ve been told–by those that were involved in the original discussions–that the EPA action level was chosen, not due to safety, but due to technological restrictions at the time. In 1993, it was difficult to get radon levels below that level on a consistent basis. With modern radon mitigation tools and techniques, many mitigation professionals can guarantee numbers far lower. Be sure to use a certified professional to guarantee the lowest radon exposure from your home.
The National Cancer Institute lists radon exposure as a possible cause of leukemia in adults and children. The US surgeon general lists radon gas as a CLASS A carcinogen. US EPA and the US surgeon general say there is no safe level of radon gas exposure. We have known for decades that there is a direct link between radon gas exposure and lung cancer in adults–even for nonsmokers. These new studies are showing that fast-growing cancers may mean radon is a cancer risk even for children.
With new testing data, we are finding that radon exposure is not isolated to certain states or US counties. Radon is found all over the US. IEA puts out a radon report card for each US state that includes testing data trends, consumer protection laws, and more. You can view the report cards here.
Fortunately, radon gas in homes is easy to mitigate. You can pre-plumb or build your home radon ready using radon mat. Existing structures can be mitigated by a certified radon professional. Radon mitigation prices vary across the US but in 2024 radon mitigation systems generally cost between $1,500 and $4,500 depending on a variety of factors like: geographic location, home size, foundation type, radon level, HVAC system design, and more.
As PDS learns more about this study, we will update this post. Be safe and test your home regularly as recommended by the US EPA.
See the full study here
