Left unmitigated, high levels of radon in a home can create a long-term health risk for residents [1].

When inhaled, radon gas particles remain in lung tissue and begin to decay. As the radon particles decay, they release bursts of radiation that can damage the lung tissue cells. Over time, the cell damage can lead to the development of lung cancer [2].

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and it is estimated that 16 percent of lung cancer deaths among Canadians are attributable to indoor radon exposure [3]. The risk of developing lung cancer from radon depends on:

• the concentration of radon in the air that is breathed;
• the duration of exposure to radon; and
• whether the person is a smoker.