Radon and Childhood Leukemia: What Every Suburban Homeowner Needs to Know

There’s been growing media attention around the possible link between radon exposure and childhood leukemia—and it’s something every parent should take seriously. You've taken steps to childproof your home, install smoke detectors, and create a safe, loving environment. But there may be an invisible danger putting your children at risk: radon.

In this article, we’ll explore the connection between radon and childhood leukemia, why suburban homes may be particularly vulnerable, and how Quality Environmental Testing Inc. can help protect your family with professional, certified radon testing.

What Is Radon and Why Should Homeowners Be Concerned?

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that forms naturally from the decay of uranium in the soil. It seeps into homes through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, and other openings. While outdoor radon levels are typically low, it can build up to dangerous concentrations inside homes—especially in basements and lower levels.

Why does this matter? Because long-term exposure to elevated radon levels is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, behind smoking. And recent studies suggest radon may also be linked to childhood leukemia, making it a major concern for families.

The Connection Between Radon and Childhood Leukemia

The most common form of cancer in children is acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), which affects the blood and bone marrow. While its exact cause remains unknown, emerging research indicates that children exposed to elevated levels of radon may face a higher risk of developing leukemia.

Children are especially vulnerable to environmental hazards like radon because of their developing bodies, faster cell division, and higher breathing rates. They also spend more time indoors, where radon levels tend to be higher—particularly in lower areas of the home.

Is Your Suburban Home at Risk?

Many homeowners assume that newer, suburban homes are immune to radon problems. But the reality is: radon doesn’t care about your ZIP code, home age, or construction type.

Why Suburban Homes May Be More Vulnerable

• Disturbed Soil: Suburban neighborhoods are often built on previously untouched land. Once the ground is disrupted for development, radon can more easily migrate into homes.

• Tightly Built Homes: Newer, energy-efficient homes are designed to be airtight, which is great for lowering energy bills—but can also trap radon inside and allow it to accumulate to unsafe levels.

How to Test for Radon in Your Home

The only way to know your home’s radon level is to test it. While home test kits are available, professional testing offers the most accurate results and peace of mind.

Quality Environmental Testing Inc. uses certified equipment and trained professionals to deliver fast, reliable radon testing. We help homeowners understand their radon levels clearly and guide them on what steps to take if elevated levels are found.

EPA Guidelines:

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action if radon levels in your home are 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.

What If Your Home Has High Radon Levels?

If your radon levels come back high—don’t worry. Radon mitigation systems are highly effective and can dramatically reduce radon to safe levels.

Mitigation usually involves a system called active soil depressurization, where a vent pipe and fan are installed to draw radon from beneath your home’s foundation and release it safely outside.

While Quality Environmental Testing Inc. does not install radon mitigation systems, we work closely with trusted, certified mitigation professionals and can refer you to experienced companies who specialize in designing and installing these systems.

DIY vs. Professional Radon Mitigation

Some homeowners consider DIY solutions, but proper radon mitigation is best left to certified professionals. Mistakes in design or installation can render a system ineffective—or worse, cause radon levels to increase.

By choosing Quality Environmental Testing Inc. for your radon testing, you gain access to:

• Certified testing with precision equipment

• Clear, easy-to-understand results

• Trusted referrals to licensed radon mitigation experts

Protecting Your Family from Radon

Here’s how to reduce your family’s risk from radon exposure:

• Test regularly: Radon levels can change over time due to shifting soil, weather, and home renovations. We recommend testing every 2–5 years.

• Seal foundation cracks: While sealing alone won’t eliminate radon, it can help limit how much enters your home.

• Improve airflow: Increasing ventilation in basements or lower levels helps dilute radon concentrations.

Taking these proactive steps can help you keep your home healthy and your loved ones safe.

Spread Awareness in Your Community

Radon often goes undetected because it’s invisible and odorless. But with more awareness, more lives can be protected.

• Bring up radon testing at your next HOA or neighborhood meeting

• Share this article with friends and family on social media

• Encourage others in your community to test their homes regularly

The more people who are informed, the more families can take action before it’s too late.

A Real-Life Example

At Quality Environmental Testing Inc., we recently worked with a family who had no idea their basement had dangerously high radon levels. Their young daughter had been using the basement as a play area almost daily. After testing revealed the issue, we connected them with a certified radon mitigation company that successfully brought levels down to a safe range.

It was a powerful reminder that early testing can prevent long-term health risks—especially for children.

Take Action Today

Radon may be invisible, but its health risks are real. And with potential links to childhood leukemia, the stakes are too high to ignore.

If you haven’t tested your home yet, now is the perfect time. Quality Environmental Testing Inc. is here to help—from professional radon testing to connecting you with trusted mitigation partners.

Contact us today to schedule your radon test and take the first step toward a safer, healthier home.