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Brown County Launches Free Radon Testing Program

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -county-launches-free-radon-testing-program.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 9:44 GMT by WFRV Green Bay
      Locales: Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

GREEN BAY, Wis. - February 11, 2026 - Brown County, Wisconsin has taken a significant step towards protecting public health with the launch of a free radon testing program for all residents. The initiative, which commenced on Monday, February 9th, 2026, is a direct response to the ongoing and often overlooked dangers of radon gas exposure, and serves as a model for other communities across the nation grappling with this silent threat.

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is created by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It's odorless, tasteless, and invisible - making it particularly insidious. The gas can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, openings around pipes, and other vulnerabilities in a building's structure. While present in varying concentrations across the country, certain geological areas are known to have higher radon levels, making proactive testing crucial.

The alarming statistic that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States demands attention. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that approximately 21,000 Americans die each year from radon-related lung cancer. Perhaps even more startling is the fact that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, highlighting its disproportionate impact on those without the added risk factor of tobacco use.

"Radon is a serious health risk, and we want to ensure that our residents have the opportunity to protect themselves and their families," stated Dr. Kim Luther, Brown County Health Officer. This sentiment echoes a growing nationwide movement towards preventative healthcare, recognizing that addressing environmental hazards before health problems arise is far more effective - and cost-effective - than treating illnesses after they manifest.

The Brown County program is intentionally designed to be accessible. Free radon testing kits are readily available for pick-up at convenient locations throughout the county, including the Brown County Public Library, Brown County Health and Human Services departments, and other designated community hubs. This eliminates financial barriers to testing, ensuring that all residents, regardless of income, can participate. The kits themselves are user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to deploy and collect a sample, with results typically available within a few months.

But testing is only the first step. Elevated radon levels necessitate mitigation - a process of reducing the concentration of the gas within the home. The most common and effective mitigation technique involves installing a radon reduction system, often a ventilation system that directs the gas away from the living space. While the cost of mitigation can vary depending on the home's specific needs, the long-term health benefits significantly outweigh the expense. Resources available through the EPA ([ https://www.epa.gov/radon ]) and the Brown County Health Department provide homeowners with detailed guidance on selecting qualified mitigation contractors and understanding the process.

The funding for this vital program comes from a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, demonstrating a commitment to public health at both the local and state levels. However, experts warn that relying solely on government initiatives is insufficient. National advocacy groups like the American Lung Association are calling for increased federal funding for radon awareness campaigns and mitigation assistance programs, as well as the integration of radon testing into routine home inspections.

Furthermore, the problem isn't limited to Brown County or even Wisconsin. The EPA estimates that approximately one in fifteen homes in the United States has an elevated radon level. This translates to millions of homes potentially exposing occupants to a significant health risk. The geological makeup of states like Pennsylvania, New York, Iowa, and Minnesota contribute to higher average radon levels, but no home is entirely immune.

As winter months approach and homes are sealed up tighter to conserve heat, radon gas can accumulate to dangerous levels. This is why public health officials recommend testing during the colder months when windows are closed and ventilation is minimized. Brown County's proactive approach sets a powerful example, urging residents and communities nationwide to take action against this preventable health hazard. The long-term impact of this initiative could be a significant reduction in lung cancer rates and a healthier future for generations to come.