According to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), radon—a radioactive gas released from the decomposition of elements found in rocks and soil, such as uranium, thorium and radium—has been identified in every county in Tennessee. Because long-term radon exposure is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, TDEC is recommending all Tennesseans test the levels of radon in their homes.
The National Cancer Institute reports that radon is present in nearly all air, and radon can enter homes through cracks in the floors, walls and foundation or through vents, well water supplies and sump pumps. When radon is inhaled, it can damage the cells lining the lung. Over time, this damage can cause lung cancer. An estimated 15,000 to 22,000 annual lung cancer deaths are attributed to radon-related lung cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Because radon exposure causes no symptoms and radon is a tasteless, odorless gas, testing is the only accurate way to determine whether high levels of radon are present in your home.
Both short-term and long-term radon tests are available. Long-term testing, which involves placing a radon detector in the home for 90 days or more, is often recommended, as radon levels can be affected by changes in weather and barometric pressure. If indoor radon levels exceed 4 picocuries per liter of air, the United States Environmental Protection Agency recommends contacting a contractor to see what can be done to lower levels of radon and prevent future radon entry.
TDEC, in conjunction with the Office of Environmental Assistance, offers an Indoor Radon Program for Tennessee residents. Through this program, residents can access a variety of informational materials and order a radon testing kit. To learn more, or to order your radon testing kit online, click here.
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