You could be a lifetime non-smoker, or even a newborn baby, and still be at risk of developing lung cancer. That’s because the second leading cause of the disease is radon, a colorless, odorless and tasteless radioactive gas that exists naturally in the soil, and has been found in high concentrations in some Sheboygan County homes. And if you are a smoker, your risk of developing lung cancer is even higher with radon.
Although some areas of the county test lower than others, radon could be a problem in those areas, too. Or, one home could test OK for radon even though the next door neighbor’s house is high. It all depends upon what’s in the soil where the radon comes from, the condition of the slab on that soil and the construction of the home.
The only way to know for sure is to test, and during January, National Radon Action Month, the Sheboygan County Division of Public Health is making radon test kits available at reduced prices. A short-term kit, recommended as a first step, is available for $5, while a long-term test kit – which is more accurate and should also be used if the first one comes back high, is available for $10. They can be picked up at the Health and Human Services Department on North 8th Street during usual business hours, and those with questions can call 920-459-3207, or visit online at http://www.lowradon.org/.
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