Environmental Health

Radon

Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates. Overall, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer.

The U.S. Surgeon General, EPA, and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommend that every Minnesota home be tested for radon. Benton County Public Health may have radon test kits available for free. Please call us to check on availability. 

Elevated levels of radon have been found in homes in every state. Radon is able to get into any type of building and build up to high levels. Homes that are new or old, drafty or air tight, big or small, and with or without a basement are all just as likely to have a radon problem.

Radon has no immediate symptoms, but long-term exposure to high levels indoors can damage lung tissue and lead to cancer. It’s harmless outdoors, but when inhaled inside, it can cause radioactive damage to the lungs. Radon is a Group A carcinogen—like tobacco smoke and asbestos—and is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. The good news: this risk is preventable through awareness and testing.