Phillip Ray Gibson NC Radon Program Radon Presentation Phillip Ray Gibson NC Radon Program

Radon, sources I understand that not everyone in this group has addresses the topic of radon. For the purposes of this presentation, I am going to briefly present you with enough information that will assist you in explaining it to the general public. Should you want additional information, please email me after this webinar. Radon is a radioactive gas released from the normal decay of the elements uranium, thorium, and radium in rocks and soil. Radioactive particles from radon can damage cells that line the lungs and lead to lung cancer. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and is associated with 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year. Testing is the only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels. We recommend radon testing and encourage corrective action when necessary.

Radiation, impact to human health Radon is an alpha particle. It, therefore, can only enter your body through inhalation or ingestion.

Radon, impact to human health Radon decays quickly, giving off tiny radioactive particles. When inhaled, these radioactive particles can damage the cells that line the lung. Long-term exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer, the only cancer proven to be associated with inhaling radon.

Radon, entry to home

Radon, levels of risk Radon is a radioactive gas released from the normal decay of the elements uranium, thorium, and radium in rocks and soil. It is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas that seeps up through the ground and diffuses into the air. In a few areas, depending on local geology, radon dissolves into ground water and can be released into the air when the water is used. Radon gas usually exists at very low levels outdoors. However, in areas without adequate ventilation, radon can accumulate to levels that substantially increase the risk of lung cancer.

Radon, impact to human health EPA recommends that you Fix your home if the radon level is 4 pCi/L or more Because there is no known safe level of exposure to radon, EPA also recommends that you consider fixing your home if the radon level is between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L. EPA's estimate of 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year due to radon is based on the average radon concentration in American homes, which is about 1.3 pCi/L. The average concentration of radon in outdoor air is 0.4 pCi/L, or 1/10 of EPA's 4 pCi/L action level. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the NC Department of Health and Human Services recommends that every homeowner in every area test their home for radon.

Radon, impact to human health Please note the severity of radon induced lung cancer. Again, it is estimated that over 20,000 people in the United States die of radon induced lung cancer annually.

Radon, impact to human health

Radon, entry to home Radon may be found in all types of homes and buildings in the United States. If there is radon gas in the ground, it can seep into a building.

Radon, entry to home

Radon, pre-construction

Radon, post construction

Radon, North Carolina 2014

Radon, North Carolina 2014

Radon, North Carolina 2015

Radon, North Carolina 2015

Radon, questions? Phillip Ray Gibson 828-712-0972 Phillip.gibson@dhhs.nc.gov