Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless, tasteless, and odorless. Radon exposure, detrimental to human health, is the second leading cause of lung cancer. There is a synergistic effect between radon exposure and smoking — people exposed to both radon and tobacco smoke are 10 times more likely to develop lung cancer. Kentucky leads the nation in the incidence of new lung cancer cases and lung cancer mortality.
Radon is derived from the decomposition of uranium in the soil and rock and is found in every region in the U.S. Different geologic rock units have varying concentrations of uranium, producing fluctuating amounts of radon. Residential radon concentrations vary widely by geographic area. Common uranium-bearing, high radon potential rock types in Kentucky include black shale and phosphatic limestones.
KGS and UK College of Nursing BREATHE program scientists combined more than 70,000 home radon test kit results with Kentucky's digital geologic map coverage to produce the most detailed statewide indoor radon potential map in the country.
Research Presentations
Other Radon Resources
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Invisible Enemy: The Rise of Radon (Comic Book)
Co-created by BREATHE and the Kentucky Geological Survey, this comic book introduces readers to the combined risks of radon and tobacco smoke. Available as a free PDF for sharing via listservs, newsletters, and social media.
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"A Geologically Based Indoor-Radon Potential Map of Kentucky" — GeoHealth
This open-access publication describes the methods used to develop Kentucky's geologically based interactive indoor-radon potential map, integrating 1:24,000 digital geologic map coverage with nearly 72,000 radon home test kit results.
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County-Specific Radon Maps & Infographics
Easy-to-read infographic handouts tailored to each county, conveying radon potential based on geology and actual radon values, as well as the prevalence of radon testing by county. Created in partnership with the Kentucky Geological Survey.
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Radon and Tobacco Smoke: A Dangerous Combination (Flyer)
A two-page infographic that effectively conveys the danger of radon and tobacco smoke separately and in combination, with information on how to request a free radon test kit.
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United Voices – Kentucky (Video)
Written and produced by Breath of Hope KY President Lindi Campbell. Kentucky lung cancer survivors speak out to raise awareness and help erase the stigma of lung cancer.
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Radon on the RADAR — Free Test Kits
The Kentucky Radon on the RADAR program provides free radon detector kits for checkout at participating county libraries across Kentucky. Check out the list to see if your county library is participating and to learn how to request a kit.