DHSS Press Release |
Date: October 14, 2005 DHSS-103-2005 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
Contact: Heidi Truschel-Light Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ELIMINATE A CANCER RISK - TEST HOME INTERIORS FOR RADON
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that people test their homes for radon every two years to determine whether they harbor a leading cause of lung cancer -- radon. Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) suggests that Delaware residents purchase radon test kits during National Radon Action Week, Oct. 16-22.
Radon comes from the breakdown of uranium inside the earth. It is an invisible, odorless and tasteless gas that causes no immediate health symptoms. However, radon gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, reports the American Lung Association in the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences' Iowa Radon Lung Cancer Study of 2000.
More than 20,000 Americans die of radon-related lung cancer every year, according to U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona. Smokers living in homes with high radon levels have a much higher risk of developing lung cancer.
Simple radon test kits (small tins filled with charcoal) are available at most hardware stores for about $10. Buildings with high radon levels can be fixed with simple, safe and affordable venting techniques. According to EPA estimates, one of every 15 homes nationwide has a radon level at or above the recommended radon action level. Homes should be tested every two years, and retested any time a move occurs, structural changes are made, or if individuals occupy a previously unused level of a structure. DPH is producing television and radio commercials, print ads, and outdoor billboards about the dangers of indoor radon.
"Eliminating high indoor radon levels is the first step to help Delawareans limit their environmental cancer risks," said Meg Maley, environment committee chair of the Delaware Cancer Consortium. "This test doesn't hurt, take up too much time or require very much effort, but it can protect ourselves and those we care about from lung cancer."
To receive additional information about radon and radon testing, or to see if you meet criteria to receive a free test kit, please call the Delaware Helpline at 1-800-464-HELP (1-800-464-4357).
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
