Average Radon Level In New Mexico: 3.9 pCi/L

The EPA advises that any home or building in New Mexico with radon levels at or exceeding 4.0 pCi/L should undergo mitigation. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) sets a lower threshold, recommending action for radon concentrations of 2.7 pCi/L or above.

• EPA's Action Level: 4.0 pCi/L
• WHO's Action Level: 2.7 pCi/L
• Average Level In New Mexico: 3.9 pCi/L

Living or working in areas with elevated radon levels can pose significant health risks. The only reliable method to ascertain the radon concentration in your specific home or building is through radon testing. This is a crucial step in ensuring your environment is safe and adheres to recommended health standards.

Understanding Radon in New Mexico

Radon in New Mexico is a significant health concern that often goes unnoticed due to its colorless and odorless nature. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is present in the soil and can seep into homes and buildings, leading to potential health risks. The radon levels in New Mexico vary across the state, with some areas having higher concentrations than others. It’s crucial for residents to understand the implications of radon exposure and take necessary measures to ensure their homes are safe.

The Health Risks For Radon in New Mexico

Exposure to high levels of radon in New Mexico can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Lung cancer: Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
• Respiratory problems: Long-term exposure to radon can lead to respiratory issues such as chronic cough and shortness of breath.
• Other health risks: While lung cancer is the most common health risk, radon exposure can also contribute to other health problems.

Radon Levels in New Mexico

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is produced from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. In New Mexico, radon levels can vary greatly due to the state’s diverse geology.

Radon Testing in New Mexico

• According to the New Mexico Department of Health, one in three homes in the state have radon levels that exceed the EPA’s action level.
• Radon testing is the only way to know if your home has high radon levels as it is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas.
• Free radon test kits are often available through the New Mexico Department of Health.

Radon Mitigation in New Mexico

If your home tests high for radon, there are mitigation systems that can reduce the radon level. These systems can be installed by a certified radon mitigation contractor.

• Radon mitigation systems work by reducing the amount of radon that enters your home from the soil below.
• According to the New Mexico Department of Health, the cost of a radon mitigation system can range from $800 to $2,500.

Radon and Real Estate in New Mexico

In New Mexico, there are no laws that require radon testing or disclosure during real estate transactions. However, the New Mexico Department of Health recommends that all homes be tested for radon before buying or selling.

Radon Risk in New Mexico

While radon is a nationwide concern, certain areas of New Mexico are more likely to have high radon levels. The New Mexico Department of Health provides a radon potential map that shows the areas of the state with the highest potential for elevated radon levels.

Additional Resources About Radon Levels In New Mexico

Here are some resources for reading about radon levels in New Mexico:

• New Mexico Environment Department – Radon Program: This is the official page of the New Mexico Environment Department’s Radon Program. It provides information about radon, its health risks, and how to test for it in your home.
• EPA – Radon Zones in New Mexico: This page from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides information about radon zones in New Mexico and other states.
• New Mexico Department of Health – Environmental Health Epidemiology Bureau: This bureau of the New Mexico Department of Health conducts studies on environmental health issues, including radon exposure.
• CDC – A Citizen’s Guide to Radon: This guide from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides comprehensive information about radon, including its risks and how to reduce them.