Lung cancer survivor launches radon awareness campaign in D.C. region

People vs. Radon has launched a regional effort across Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia to push home radon testing and mitigation. The campaign is led by lung cancer survivor Cary Hatch, who says her diagnosis and a high-radon reading at home show why the hidden gas matters.

Why it matters: - Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that can build up indoors and cause preventable lung cancer. - Federal health authorities estimate radon-related lung cancer causes about 21,000 deaths a year in the United States. - The campaign is targeting homeowners and renters in the Washington, D.C. region, where radon levels are described as particularly high.

What happened: - People vs. Radon, a new public awareness and advocacy initiative, launched a regional campaign across the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. - The nonprofit is fiscally sponsored by the Greater Washington Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. - Founder Cary Hatch, a lifelong nonsmoker, was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer in July 2024. - Hatch later learned her home had elevated radon levels. - The campaign's message is: "Test Your Home. Save Your Life." - More information, testing resources and partnership details are available on the organization's website.

The details: - People vs. Radon is focused first on the Washington region. - Radon testing is described as inexpensive, widely available and easy to start. - Test kits are sold at hardware stores, home improvement retailers and online marketplaces. - Certified mitigation professionals can significantly reduce radon concentrations when elevated levels are found. - The Environmental Protection Agency recommends action when radon levels reach or exceed 4 picocuries per liter. - The nonprofit is partnering with community organizations, libraries, healthcare leaders, local governments and advocacy groups to expand access to testing resources.

Between the lines: - Hatch's diagnosis gives the campaign a personal origin story that is likely to resonate with residents who do not think of lung cancer as a nonsmoker's disease. - The emphasis on testing and mitigation suggests the group's near-term strategy is behavior change, not just awareness. - An advisory council of local leaders with experience in public relations, advertising, legislative advocacy, oncology, community engagement and philanthropy is helping build a broader coalition. - The group is also aiming to advance policies that reduce preventable radon exposure.

What's next: - People vs. Radon plans to keep building partnerships that broaden access to testing and education across the region. - The nonprofit's longer-term goal is to push more residents to test their homes and act when radon levels are elevated. - The campaign is expected to expand its policy and coalition work as awareness grows.

The bottom line: - The campaign turns a local survivor's diagnosis into a public health push aimed at preventing avoidable lung cancer.