Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in people who have never smoked and is estimated to cause more than 200 lung cancer deaths in Kansas every year, according to KDHE Secretary Dr. Robert Moser.

About one out of every three radon measurements performed in Kansas are elevated.  Nearly all  Kansas counties, including Ellis, have high radon levels.

Brian Hanson heads the Kansas Radon Program through the K-State Engineering College Extension Program.  Hanson says r adon can enter a home through cracks in the foundation or other openings such as hopes or pipes.

Radon comes from the natural radioactive decay of radium and uranium found in the soil beneath  houses.  Test kits are available for $5.50 from the Ellis County Extension Office.

Watch Street Beat tonight as Hanson discusses more about the dangers of radon gas, which is odorless and colorless, and how to mitigate it.