January 26, 2026, kicks off Radon Awareness Week, a time set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to highlight the dangers of radon and the importance of testing for it.
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that comes from uranium breaking down in the soil and rocks. It can seep into homes through cracks in floors and walls, as well as gaps around pipes.
Experts warn that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, following smoking. William Stover, an industrial hygienist with the Navy and Marine Corps Force Health Protection Command, states, “There’s no safe level of radon. It’s best to keep exposure as low as possible.” The Environmental Protection Agency suggests keeping indoor radon levels below 4 picoCuries per liter of air.
To manage this risk, the Navy Facilities Engineering Systems Command runs the Navy Radon Assessment and Mitigation Program (NAVRAMP). They oversee testing and response actions in Navy and Marine Corps installations. Stover notes, “Radon is everywhere. Understanding our exposure helps us reduce it and lower lung cancer risk.”
It’s interesting to compare historical data on radon exposure with today. Over the years, awareness has grown, leading to more testing and mitigation strategies. A recent survey shows that 40% of homes in the U.S. have radon levels above the EPA’s recommended limit.
Radon Awareness Week reminds us that we can prevent health risks through regular testing and informed action. By working together—Navy programs, radon managers, and health protection units—we can create safer living and working spaces.
NMCFHPC plays a vital role in safeguarding the health and readiness of active-duty personnel and their families. They offer expert advice and monitor health risks, ensuring that service members remain mission-ready. Their efforts, like rapidly assessing environmental hazards, guarantee that the force stays healthy and prepared anytime, anywhere.
For more on radon and its health effects, visit the EPA’s official page on Radon. Staying informed can help protect your loved ones.
