PA Lung Association: High Levels Of Cancer-Causing Radon Gas Detected In 40% of PA Homes; Test Kits Available At No Charge In Priority ZIP Codes

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and the “State of Lung Cancer” report reveals that it is detected at high levels in about 40% of homes in Pennsylvania. 

During January for National Radon Action Month, the American Lung Association in Pennsylvania is urging everyone to help save lives by testing their home for radon and mitigating if high levels are detected. 

The Lung Association is offering a limited supply of radon test kits to Pennsylvania residents in certain areas. 

The test kits are available at no charge, one per household, while supplies last.

Click Here to check your eligibility and to request a free test kit.

The program is supported by a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

“Radon in homes is more common than you think. Pennsylvania has one of the nation’s most serious radon problems. High levels of radioactive radon gas have been found in every county but most places in the Commonwealth remain under-tested, so this isn’t something that should be taken lightly. Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States,” said Kevin Stewart, Director, Environmental Health. for the Lung Association. “Testing is the only way to know how much radon is in your home. The good news is that it is easy to test. Do-it-yourself test kits are simple to use and inexpensive.”

“Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer after smoking in the United States, and is a serious concern within the Commonwealth,” said Department of Environmental Protection Interim Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley. 

“The Department of Environmental Protection remains committed to working with home builders, school districts, realtors and other Pennsylvania departments to address radon issues and keeping all Pennsylvanians safe,” said Shirley.

In Pennsylvania, about 40% of radon test results equal or exceed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) action level of 4 pCi/L (picoCuries per liter of air), according to the Lung Association’s “State of Lung Cancer” report. 

Recently, Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro issued a proclamation declaring January 2024 Radon Action Month in the Commonwealth.

If high levels are confirmed, a radon professional should install a radon mitigation system, which is easy and relatively affordable. 

A typical radon mitigation system consists of a vent pipe, fan and properly sealing cracks and other openings. This system collects radon gas from underneath the foundation and vents it to the outside. 

Contact the Pennsylvania radon program online or at 1-800-237-2366 for a list of certified professionals.

Visit DEP’s Radon In The Home webpage for more information.

Visit the American Lung Association Radon and Radon Basics webpages to learn more.

Resource Link:

-- DEP Highlights National Radon Action Month, Provides Free Radon Test Kits

[Posted: January 2, 2024]  PA Environment Digest