Radon may be a silent health risk in your home

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit encourages residents to test their homes for radon.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, causing nearly 16 per cent of lung cancer deaths annually which is equal to about 850 lung cancer deaths each year in Ontario.

Radon is an invisible, colourless, and tasteless radioactive gas that naturally occurs when uranium in the soil and rock decays. The gas is naturally found in the environment and can enter homes through cracks in foundation walls, gaps around pipes, drains and sump pumps, often undetected.

Long-term exposure to radon can increase the risk of lung cancer depending on the amount of radon present and the length of exposure. Smoking, combined with radon exposure, significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Checking a home for radon is simple and can be done with a do-it-yourself kit. You can find information about where to purchase a Health Canada approved kit and how to use it at Take Action on Radon or by contacting a certified radon professional.

The Canadian guideline for radon is 200 becquerels per cubic meter. When levels exceed this guideline, action is recommended. A long-term test is recommended.

If higher levels of radon exist, homeowners are encouraged to contact a certified radon professional to help reduce levels. The discovery of radon is a warrantable defect under the Ontario New Home Warranty and Protection Plan for new homes that are seven years old or less. Homes older than seven years are eligible for home radon mitigation support through the Canadian Lung Association.

For more information about radon, visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org or contact Health Connection at 705- 721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.