Public-health consensus: Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. after smoking, and the leading cause among non-smokers. Risk depends on concentration and years of exposure.1
How the damage happens
Radon gas decays into solid radioactive particles. Those particles can lodge in the lungs and continue decaying, delivering localized radiation. The process is invisible and symptom-free until disease may appear years later—another reason testing beats waiting for a “sign.”
Smoking multiplies risk
Smokers exposed to elevated radon face substantially higher risk than either factor alone. If anyone in the home smokes, treating radon is especially urgent—and quitting remains the largest single risk reduction.
What lowering levels achieves
Mitigation reduces ongoing exposure. It cannot erase past dose, but it cuts future accumulation—particularly valuable for children and long-term occupants. Pair this page with safe level guidance.
Sources
- U.S. EPA and U.S. Surgeon General radon health statements. epa.gov/radon/health-risk-radon
- National Cancer Institute — radon and cancer fact sheets.
Need a local next step? Call (605) 600-6282 to talk through testing, real estate timing, or mitigation for your Rapid City–area home.