The risk from radon in homes varies all across the country, within the state, and in the Wintergreen Community.
See more about radon from the Centers for Disease Control.
A “Radon Facts For Virginians” brochure can be downloaded here (pdf). The VDH map puts Wintergreen on the line between where high and moderate radon concentrations may occur in the ground.
Is Radon a Health Hazard? Yes, it can be. Radon is considered second only to smoking as the leading cause of lung cancer.
Radon gas and its by-products are inhaled and may become trapped in your lungs. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to radon and its by-products may cause lung cancer.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) estimates that as many as 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States may be associated with radon exposure. Approximately 600 of those deaths occur in Virginia (based on census statistics).
Radon exposure is not known to cause any immediate physical symptoms or reactions. The higher the radon level and the longer a person is exposed to it, then the greater the health risk. Studies have shown that current and ex-smokers are at a higher risk from exposure to radon than those who have never smoked.- from the Virginia Department of Health’s brochure on radon
Lists of certified radon testers and mitigation services are maintained by the National Radon Safety Board and the National Radon Proficiency Program.
“Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that is produced during the natural decay of uranium in the ground. ”