Radon has been detected in every state and may be detected in many kinds of buildings, including houses, schools, and commercial buildings. Radon gas decays to radioactive particles that can be inhaled and trapped in the lungs. Under certain conditions, these radioactive particles may cause lung cancer. Not everyone exposed to elevated radon concentrations will develop lung cancer, and there is still uncertainty about the magnitude of the health risks associated with radon exposure.
Significant risk is associated with high exposure levels over a long period of time.
The health risks of radon exposure are much greater when coupled with smoking. Radon usually enters a building through hollow block walls, cracks in foundation floors and walls, and openings around pipes, sumps, or drains. Radon movement into a building is dependent upon several factors, including air pressure, wind, soil conditions, and ventilation inside a building. Because of these and other factors, the radon concentration in a building may fluctuate over time. Radon Activities at UK Testing of University buildings for radon began in 1988.