Every year, Lung Cancer Action Week in May serves as a powerful reminder: lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. While smoking is a well-known cause, there’s another major threat that often goes unnoticed—radon gas.
Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that can build up inside homes, schools, and workplaces. It’s the #1 cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, and responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths per year, according to the EPA.
This week is not just about raising awareness—it’s about taking action. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your loved ones by understanding and addressing radon exposure.
💨 What Is Radon, and Why Is It Dangerous?
Radon forms naturally in the soil from the breakdown of uranium. It moves up through the ground and enters buildings through cracks, gaps, or foundations. Once inside, it can become trapped—especially in basements and lower levels—building up to hazardous levels over time.
You won’t smell or see it. You won’t feel it. But over years of exposure, it can damage lung tissue and significantly increase your cancer risk—even if you’ve never smoked a day in your life.
🧪 The Only Way to Know Is to Test
Because radon is invisible and odorless, the only way to detect it is with radon testing.
The EPA recommends testing:
- Every 2–3 years
- After any major home renovations
- Before buying or selling a home
- If you’ve never tested your home before
EPA Action Level: If your home tests at 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher, you should take steps to reduce it immediately by installing a radon mitigation system from SWAT Environmental. But even levels between 2.0–4.0 pCi/L still carry some risk.
🛠️ Mitigation: The Simple Step That Saves Lives
If your radon levels are high, don’t panic—fixing the problem is straightforward.
A professional radon mitigation system from SWAT Environmental can:
- Reduce radon levels by up to 99%
- Operate quietly and efficiently
- Require little maintenance once installed
- Protect your family 24/7, year-round
For many homeowners, it’s one of the most important home improvements they’ll ever make—because it directly impacts their family’s health.
👨👩👧 Who Should Take Action During Lung Cancer Action Week?
- Homeowners who have never tested for radon
- Home buyers and sellers preparing for inspection season
- Landlords or property managers responsible for tenant safety
- Schools and childcare centers in areas with known radon zones
- Anyone with a family history of lung cancer or chronic respiratory issues
✅ Join the Movement. Take the Test. Save a Life.
This Lung Cancer Action Week, we encourage everyone to take a simple, proactive step:
📌 Test your home or business for radon.
📌 If needed, install a mitigation system from SWAT Environmental.
📌 Share this message with friends, neighbors, and coworkers.
You can’t control everything about your health—but you can control radon levels.
🏡 We’re Here to Help You Take Action
At SWAT Environmental, we specialize in radon testing and mitigation services nationwide. We’re committed to helping families, homeowners, property managers, businesses, and schools reduce radon exposure and improve indoor air quality.
Let’s take action together—because when it comes to lung cancer prevention, awareness is powerful, but action saves lives.