Science / Medicine : Winter Radon Season Doubted

Although scientists have long believed that levels of radon are highest in homes during winter, new results suggest that high concentrations can occur at any time in the year and are most likely during periods of rain or snow, according to geologist Daniel J. Greeman of Pennsylvania State University.

He said at a conference in Baltimore that homeowners should test their dwellings for radon several times over the course of a year before they conclude that it is not a problem.

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas produced naturally by the decay of uranium in the soil. Radon is a potent cause of lung cancer that kills an estimated 20,000 people annually in the United States.

Scientists at the conference stressed that indoor radon readings can reach hazardous levels almost anywhere if other conditions conspire to concentrate the gas and move it into dwellings.