Utah was identified as a hotbed for radon, with approximately 6,278 fatalities attributed to lung cancer caused by radon gas occurring between 1973 and 2019. These figures were based on World Health Organization estimates suggesting that 14% to 25% of lung cancer cases are attributable to the gas.
Utah's high radon fatality rates
To date, the number of lung cancer fatalities caused by radon gas made it Utah's most deadly geologic hazard.
How radon levels are formed
Radon originates from the natural decay of uranium found in nearly all soil and rock. While geologic conditions directly affect indoor concentrations, levels are also highly dependent on building construction methods. When both geologic and building conditions are favorable, the potential for high indoor radon gas levels increases.
Historical context of fatalities
It was noted that thousands of fatalities from radon gas likely occurred before 1973 as well.
Testing and mitigation solutions
Testing remains the only way to determine if families are at risk, and radon problems are considered fixable. Some reduction systems can decrease radon levels in a home by up to 99%, and even very high levels can be reduced to acceptable levels without excessive costs.
Available resources for testing
Free test kits were made available through Utah Radon Services, and additional information regarding testing was provided by the Utah Division of Air Quality: Radon Program.
