New reports from the American Cancer Society links radon exposure to blood cancer in women. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that’s often found in rock and soil, and is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. The studies found that women living in counties with high radon levels were 63% more likely to develop blood cancer than those living in counties with low radon levels.
Oneida County Community Health Specialist Christie Oestreich says radon can seep through cracks via house foundation, and deliver a dose of alpha radiation to a person’s bone marrow affecting their blood cell reproduction. She says people should be proactive in keeping their home radon-free…
“…If you’re doing any type of construction or you’re finishing your basement, I would suggest doing a test after that because often times that can bring radon into the house and seep through the cracks. I think it’s important to be proactive about it and test your house. If you have radon levels; go about the process and fix your home…”
Oestreich says the Oneida County Health Department has radon testing kits available.
She says the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website has an interactive map showing what radon levels are in different communities based on people’s tests. For more information visit dhs.wisconsin.gov
