Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Health has distributed over a thousand radon testing kits to residents during National Radon Action Month. This initiative aims to help individuals test their homes and workplaces for radon, a radioactive gas linked to lung cancer.

"We are thrilled with the overwhelming response from West Virginians to take the first step needed to keep their homes safe," stated Sherri Young, DO, MBA, FAAFP, Cabinet Secretary of the Department of Health. She emphasized that early recognition of radon issues allows people to utilize reduction systems effectively.

Radon is produced from the natural decay of uranium found in soil, rock, and water. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. The CDC also highlights that smokers exposed to radon face a tenfold increased risk of developing lung cancer compared to non-smokers at similar exposure levels.

Jason Frame, Director of the Office of Environmental Health Services (OEHS), commented on the initiative: "Under Governor Jim Justice’s leadership, we are pleased to be able to provide this important resource to help keep West Virginians safe." He noted that there is now an additional supply available for those interested in obtaining a kit.

The OEHS's radon program actively monitors state-wide levels and shares findings on its Public Radon Dashboard. Residents can request free testing kits by emailing radon@wv.gov or calling 304-352-5039. Further educational resources about radon are accessible through the OEHS website.

For more information about West Virginia’s Radon Program, residents are encouraged to visit the official site.