How does radon cause health problems?
Radon emits alpha, beta and gamma radiation as it decays. The real danger does not necessarily come from the gas itself but from the products that it produces when it decays. For example; Lead, Bismuth and Polonium. these are actual microscopic particles that attach themselves to dust, pollen, smoke and other airborne particles in a building and are inhaled. Once in the lungs they become trapped and expose the sensitive lung tissue to the harmful radiation they emit as they decay. The effect is cumulative. Those at most risk would be people with diminished lung capacity, asthma sufferers, smokers, etc. Since it is impossible to know what your cumulative exposure is, you should take steps to evaluate your current exposure.
