By Steve Sandstrom, SIU School of Medicine
Accidental residential fires are most common during the holidays due to the increased use of candles and seasonal illumination. But are you aware of another potential danger in the home?
Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas. It forms naturally from the decay of radioactive elements found in soil and rock. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and scientists estimate that about 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year are related to radon.
January is national Radon Action Month. With assistance from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine has developed an online course that describes the risks associated with radon and its effects on health. It consists of five sessions that range from 15-60 minutes in length.
SIU SOM’s Office of Continuing Professional Development is offering the course for a small registration fee. Visit siumed.edu/cpd and click on “online courses.”
For more information about radon safety, contact Dr. Tracey Smith at 217-545-2200. For questions about accessing the online courses, call Amy Williams at 217-545-5770.
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