Some water wells in Pennsylvania become the sources of the high levels of radon. This colorless, odorless radioactive gas is a leading cause of the lung cancer.
The existence of high-level radon was found in 14 percent water wells in Pennsylvania that were tested between 1985 and 2015. A study from the federal government unveils this fact. Most of the times, this colorless radioactive gas enters the home through soil and rock that are surrounding the key foundation. But, radon becomes airborne when someone cleans clothes, dishes or takes the shower with the water that contains this cancer-causing element.
Phys.org reported that radon is regarded as the second key cause of the lung cancer. Currently, it is a serious cause of major threat and panic in Pennsylvania. Almost 40 percent of the existing households in the state are experiencing high levels of indoor radon. The crucial fact is this radioactive gas can't be seen or smelled.
The U.S. Geological Survey has examined the samples of more than 1000 water wells and noticed the existence of radon in some specific areas. According to the report, an acute threat is visible from indoor air and groundwater in Lancaster, Chester, and York counties in Pennsylvania. The state Department of Environmental Protection utters that residents need to test their air first.
If they notice the elevated level of radon, then they should test the water of the wells. A specific system that includes the use of the charcoal or the aeration can remove radon from the water. Without proper testing, it is difficult to get rid of the harmful effects of this colorless, odorless radioactive gas. So it is necessary to take some concrete precautions for the safety of the citizens of Pennsylvania.
Almost twenty-one thousand people who died every year from lung cancer are attributed to radon. The National Research Council says a small portion of these people is affected due to the presence of radon in the water. An estimate of 1998 revealed 160 people could face lung cancer after breathing radon and another 20 could experience stomach cancer after drinking radon-laced water. That means Pennsylvania is currently facing an acute situation that need to be addressed properly.
Now Pennsylvania is not the only place where the presence of radon is surfaced. According to Global News, Calgary in Canada is also facing high levels of this radon gas. A new study that examined 2,300 homes in Calgary and near areas discovered the existence of this dangerous gas.
Radon is truly very fatal to human health. The recent report about the water wells in Pennsylvania surely increases a lot of concerns. Though, it is also true that precautions are also prescribed by the state Department of Environmental Protection.
