One in nearly 15 homes contains high levels of radon, a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that is the second-leading cause of lung cancer, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. An estimated 21,000 people die each year from lung cancer due to exposure to radon in homes and other buildings. Dangerous levels are found in homes in every state.

January is Radon Action Month and the American Lung Association in Pennsylvania encourages residents to take these simple steps to protect their health from this invisible threat.1. Test homes for radon. Inexpensive radon testing kits can be found at many hardware stores or online. Testing can also be done by a certified radon-testing professional. If dangerous levels of radon are found, homeowners can install a radon mitigation system, for about the same price as a large television, to decrease the risk of harmful exposure.2. Speak up to lower radon risk in other indoor spaces. Radon can build up in all buildings, not only in homes. Speak with local community officials and public health professionals to encourage radon testing - and mitigation systems if high levels are found - in schools and child care facilities and other public and private facilities.3. Support policy steps in Pennsylvania to reduce radon levels indoors. Concerned residents should support changes to policies that could lower the risk of exposure to radon, including the adoption of building codes for radon-resistant construction. During real estate transactions, potential buyers should be informed about the radon levels in the home they're considering."You can't see, taste or smell radon, but it is the second-leading cause of lung cancer, which is the number one cancer killer," said Deborah P. Brown, president and CEO, American Lung Association of the Mid-Atlantic."Too many people do not know that they may have this dangerous threat in their homes. Because most of us keep our windows and doors closed in colder weather, January provides a great time to test for radon. It's something every home and business owner in Pennsylvania should do."