What hazardous gas may accumulate in basements and has been linked to lung cancer?

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that results from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It is particularly notable for its tendency to accumulate in enclosed spaces, such as basements, where ventilation may be limited. This accumulation is significant because radon exposure has been conclusively linked to an increased risk of lung cancer, making it a serious health hazard in residential and commercial buildings.

Radon is typically measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L) and, in many areas, levels above 4 pCi/L are considered unsafe. This has led to the implementation of radon testing and mitigation measures in homes, especially in regions with higher natural radon levels. Awareness about radon’s health risks encourages property owners to conduct tests and address high levels of exposure to protect the health of occupants.

Other gases mentioned, while hazardous in certain contexts, do not have the same specific association with lung cancer as radon does. For example, carbon monoxide is a toxic gas produced by burning fossil fuels, formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound found in various building materials, and methane is a flammable gas that can accumulate in certain conditions but is primarily known for its explosive potential rather than a direct link to lung