Testing Homes for Radon Is Inexpensive - and Could Prevent Lung
Cancer Governor Paterson Proclaims January as Radon Action Month
ALBANY, N.Y. (Jan. 12, 2010) – Along with Governor Paterson's
proclamation of January as Radon Action Month, State Health
Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D., today reminded New Yorkers
about the importance of testing their homes for radon. Testing
is simple, inexpensive, and a precaution everyone should take.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, radon is
the second-leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking. Although
lung cancer can be treated, its survival rate is one of the
lowest of cancers. The five-year mortality rate for people with
lung cancer is approximately 80 percent to 85 percent. Radon is
responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths annually.
"For the first time, New York's adult smoking rate has dropped
below 17 percent, which is well below the national average,"
Commissioner Daines said. "Nevertheless, we must continue to
expand our efforts