Radon
What Increases Your Risk of Radon Exposure
When uranium decays, it releases radon. Since uranium occurs naturally in soil and rocks, radon is found all over the world. Additionally, if you live or work in an area that has large deposits of uranium, you may be more likely to be exposed to high levels of radon. However, factors relating to the specific construction and location of your house may be just as likely to affect your risk of radon exposure as the source of the radon itself. Even houses right next to each other can have very different radon levels.
Radon enters a home or building through cracks in the foundation or walls, through basement floors, and in water supplies (such as private wells). If the water supply contains radon, it may enter the air in the home through faucets, showers, dishwashers, or washing machines. Radon may also enter the home through pipes, sumps, or drains.
Radon is also found in many building materials. But building materials rarely cause a radon problem all by themselves.
Radon is heavier than air, so it is often found in higher concentrations in lower levels of buildings, such as in basements and sumps. Since radon is odourless, tasteless, and invisible, it is wise to test your home and office for radon levels no matter where you live or work.
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| Author: | Douglas Dana Monica Rhodes | Last Updated: April 26, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care, Medical Toxicology | |
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| Topic Contents | |
| Topic Overview | |
| Health Effects of Radon Exposure | |
 | What Increases Your Risk of Radon Exposure |
| How to Test for Radon | |
| How to Prevent, Reduce, or Remove Radon | |
| Helpful Resources | |
| Other Places To Get Help | |
| Related Information | |
| References | |
| Credits | |