Canadian Association of
Nurses for the Environment
Association canadienne des infirmières
et infirmiers pour l'environnement
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Canadian Association of
Nurses for the Environment
Association canadienne des infirmières
et infirmiers pour l'environnement
Radon is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Exposure to high levels of radon at home increases your risk of developing lung cancer. The risk of cancer depends on the level of radon and how long a person is exposed to those levels. Radon is an odourless, invisible, radioactive gas naturally released from the ground. Radon gas can move from the ground and get into homes and buildings through small cracks and holes and build up to high levels. Over time, breathing in high levels of radon can cause lung cancer. This assessment tool is designed to provide you with education regarding the cause and risks of radon gas exposure with steps to take to test your home and resources curated specifically for you and those residing in your home. At the end of the assessment, you will be provided with a list of online resources that you can save as a pdf or print to review further.
Radon Gas is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. In order to assess and reduce your exposure to radon gas, Health Canada recommends performing an at home radon gas test. There are two options for testing for radon: you can purchase a do-it-yourself radon test kit OR hire a radon measurement professional. Visit Takeactiononradon.ca to find a test kit or measurement professional. You can also read about how to do a radon test here - https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/health-risks-safety/radon-long-term-test-instructions.html
Health anxiety is a very real and rational response to learning new information and how it could affect your and your family. Radon gas is a long-term exposure risk, where exposure to high levels of radon over time increases the risks of developing lung cancer. Taking action to reduce your radon exposure will decrease these risks. Health Canada recommends you take action if your radon gas reading is above 200 Bq/m3. For any concerns about your health, consult your primary care physician or a local health clinic to assess your health. Health care practitioners may not be able to answer your questions about radon, but they can address any physical health concerns related to lung cancer.
While there are ways to mitigate risk, short term solutions will not decrease your risk long-term. Health Canada recommends performing a radon test, and if needed, professional radon removal. The risk from Radon gas is long-term, so it’s never too late to decide to test and reduce your exposure.
Short term ways to lower risk of radon gas exposure in your home include:
It is the obligation of the landlord to provide a healthy living environment but no existing policy states landlords must test the home, Health Canada recommends having a conversation with your landlord about radon kit purchasing and possible radon removal. Where can I access more information?
