When we think about air quality in our homes, we usually focus on things like dust, allergens, or outdoor pollution. But there’s one threat that often goes unnoticed, even though it could be lurking in our basements or living rooms: radon gas. This naturally occurring, colorless, odorless gas has the potential to cause serious health problems, and it is present in dangerous concentrations in many Massachusetts homes. Fortunately, with proper testing and mitigation techniques, radon problems can be prevented or eliminated.
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James St. John 2024 CC BY 2.0
What is Radon Gas?
Radon is a radioactive gas that forms when uranium, thorium, and radium—naturally occurring elements in the earth—break down in rocks, soil, and groundwater. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it nearly impossible to detect without special equipment. The gas seeps into homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations, often accumulating in basements or lower levels of the house. While radon exists in small amounts everywhere, certain areas have higher concentrations due to the underlying geology.
Why is Radon Found in So Many Massachusetts Homes?
Massachusetts is particularly prone to elevated radon levels due to its geological makeup. The state is home to granite bedrock, which contains naturally occurring uranium that can break down into radon gas. Areas with dense rock formations or soil rich in minerals like granite, shale, or phosphate are more likely to have higher radon concentrations.
Homes with basements, crawlspaces, or poor ventilation are especially at risk, as radon tends to accumulate in these lower-lying areas. While the gas can enter through any cracks or openings, basements provide an ideal environment for radon to gather because they are below ground and may not have enough airflow to disperse it.
According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, radon levels in homes can vary significantly, even between neighboring houses. This makes testing essential to know if your home has elevated radon levels.
The Possible Consequences of Exposure
Radon is a leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Long-term exposure to high levels of radon gas increases the risk of developing lung cancer because the radioactive particles in radon decay and release radiation as they are inhaled. These particles can damage the cells in your lungs, leading to mutations that may eventually result in cancer.
The health risks associated with radon exposure depend on several factors, including the concentration of radon in your home, how long you’ve been exposed, and whether you smoke or have ever smoked. Smokers who are also exposed to high radon levels are particularly at risk, as the combination of smoking and radon exposure increases the risk of lung cancer significantly.
The symptoms of radon exposure are often not immediately noticeable, which is why it’s referred to as a “silent killer.” Unfortunately, by the time symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing appear, the damage may already