The Dangers of Radon
See how Radon is dangerous and ways to detect it.
The Dangers
Radon is a colorless and odorless noble gas so it is very hard to detect. Small particles from the gas can collect in a persons lungs and airways that greatly increase the chance of getting lung cancer.
Radon Levels
Radon has an action level of 4 pCi/L (pico-curies per liter) which is a unit for radioactive concentrations. But under 4 pCi/L is still not acceptable you are just not in grave danger. In normal day outside there is about .4 pCi depending on your surroundings. A geiger counter can be used to monitor the level. PA has one of the largest radon levels in the country!
Health concerns
Like most radiation it does not only have one use but all of its commercial uses have to do with the radiation it emits. It can be used to cure cancer in small amounts but it also can cause cancer with too much exposure.
Prevention
Radon monitoring kits can be purchased at a local hardware store and it tests for levels of Radon in the basement or a contractor can be hired to seal off any Radon emission if any is present. Try to avoid Radon until you know that the problem has been dealt with.