Radon test before you move in
Q: What is radon? We’re looking to buy a house, and I hear that I should know about it. — Jeremy K., Minneapolis
A: You heard right, Jeremy. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is emitted from rocks and dirt. It’s produced from the decay of uranium found in nearly all soils. Undetectable by taste, sight or smell, radon exposure is most dangerous when it concentrates indoors. When inhaled, it can damage your lungs.
It’s estimated that for about 20 per cent of all lung cancer patients (those who have never smoked), overexposure to radon is the cause. In the U.S., it’s estimated that around 20,000 cases of lung cancer deaths annually are caused by radon.
One out of every 15 houses in suburban America is thought to have unacceptably high radon levels. It can be in your home whether it’s old or new, well sealed or drafty, with or without a basement. The good news is that it can be removed by installing a vent, but you first need to test for it.
Everyone should have levels in their home tested once, then again after remediation, if it is needed — and certainly before moving into a new residence. Minnesotans are at a slightly higher risk of radon exposure than people in other states in the U.S., so Jeremy, you should contact the Minnesota Department of Health at www. health.state.mn.us and have your home tested. Anyone can go to the Environmental Protection Agency’s website (www.epa.gov) to find a test kit or to hire a professional to come to their home and do the test.
The test consists of placing a sensor in the home, usually in your basement, for three to 90 days, then either sending it to a lab or having your professional tester come back and read the results. The test can run around US$250, and a remedial venting system can run from $800 to $1,500 — a small price to pay (or have the seller pay) for your family’s long-term health.
Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen
at youdocsdaily@sharecare.com.