Radon is a radioactive gas, which comes from the natural breakdown of radium - a decay product of uranium. Radon itself naturally breaks down and forms decay products called "radon daughters," which can be inhaled deep into the lungs. As these decay products break down further, they release energy that can damage lung tissue and lead to lung cancer. Radon is a powerful pollutant that has been linked to lung cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or EPA believes that indoor radon exposure may be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

Radon problems have been identified in almost every state, with particular attention focused on areas within the states of Minnesota, Iowa, and North Dakota where radon is a concern of residents.

The major source of high levels of radon in houses is in the soil surrounding the house. The radon gas from the soil enters the house - or building - through cracks in the foundation floor, walls, drains, sumps, joints, or other openings. Radon is in water and minor amounts of radon can enter through water from private wells and be released through showers, washing machines and faucets. Although in Minnesota most drinking water has little radon. Indoor levels of radon can range the same as outdoor levels of radon - to several thousand times higher-in situations where the radon has accumulated inside. If your home has a basement and you spend a lot of time there, you may be in danger.

The best way to check radon levels in living spaces is to test for it. Kits are available through many county public health offices.

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