OAK GROVE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Due to elevated levels of radon in parts of Christian County, residents are encouraged to test their homes using free test kits available at the Hopkinsville-Christian County Library and Christian County Extension Office. Oak Grove Mayor Jackie Oliver and Hopkinsville Mayor J.R. Knight both read a proclamation declaring January National Radon Action Month during their city council meetings.
At the Oak Grove City Council meeting Tuesday night, Jamie Knight, a Cancer Control Specialist with the Kentucky Cancer Program spoke on the dangers of radon. She explained that radon is a colorless, odorless gas that poses a serious health risk. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. “Our numbers are very high in Christian County for deaths attributed to lung cancer,” she added.
To address this issue, Christian County is participating in a research study called Radon on the RADAR, led by the University of Kentucky College of Nursing. One of the project’s main goals is to make home radon testing equipment more accessible to residents. Kits are available for free at the library and extension office. Jamie Knight emphasized that residents can test for radon in their home and receive valuable information about their findings.
Additionally, the College of Nursing is interested in learning more about radon in local areas. Those who borrow a test kit, will also have the opportunity to join the research study…