There are several ways to test for and reduce radon exposure , like increasing air flow . Image : Adobe Stock
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ), radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer overall , contributing to around 21,000 lung cancer deaths a year .
About 6 million homes in the U . S . have radon levels above the EPA‐recommended level of 4 picocuries per liter , according to CDC data .
Overall , 1,006 respondents participated in the survey . Among the respondents :
� 48 % were not aware of the risks for radon in their home ;
� 75 % said they have not had their home tested for radon ;
� 55 % were not concerned about radon exposure in their home , community or schools ; and
� 67 % have not taken action to reduce radon exposure in their home .
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According to a press release , symptoms of lung cancer can include generally not feeling well or feeling tired all the time , frequent wheezing , shortness of breath , coughing , chest pains or coughing up blood .
Carbone said that anyone whose symptoms are not improving after initial treatment should insist on being examined , regardless of age .
The health effects of radon are cumulative and may be delayed by decades , the release said .