A new report indicates that Canadians' exposure to radioactive gas is increasing, putting millions at risk of lung cancer.

Data derived from a 2024 opinion poll conducted by the University of Calgary across Canada regarding radon gas exposure shows that 18 percent of Canadian homes contain high levels of radon gas that exceed the acceptable standards set by Health Canada.

This means that nearly 10.3 million Canadians are exposed to the dangerous gas inside their homes.

Dr. Paul Mikarski from Health Canada's National Radon Program said in a statement: "In the 12 years since we issued our first report on radon across Canada, the evidence has continued to emerge showing that the number of homes with high radon levels is on the rise."

He added, "The 2024 opinion poll provides more up-to-date information on radon levels across the country, highlighting the importance of protecting Canadians from residential radon exposure."

What is radon?

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas and is the second leading cause of lung cancer worldwide.

It is produced when uranium, a common element in Canadian soil and rock, decays.

It can also enter homes through any openings that contact the ground, such as cracks in foundation floors and walls, construction joints, gaps around service pipes, support columns, windows, floor drains, and sinks or cavities inside walls, according to Health Canada.

Additionally, radon gas levels inside homes can vary depending on local geology, the history of building construction, and other factors such as ventilation.

The report stated that no area in Canada is free from radon gas exposure and residents are encouraged to test their homes.

"Long-term exposure to radon gas is the leading cause of lung cancer among individuals with limited smoking history or who have never smoked, with a 16 percent increase in the lifetime risk of lung cancer for every 100 becquerels/m3 of radon exposure."

Raise the Alarm

Dr. Aaron Goodarzi, a member of the research team at the University of Calgary, noted that the updated report provides "greater understanding" of how Canadians are exposed to radon gas.

He explained that "it is concerning that this report concludes Canadians are among the most exposed people to radon on the planet, which means we urgently need to address this issue to avoid a future of preventable lung cancers."

Goodarzi stated that Canada has one of the lowest smoking rates in the world but is now experiencing one of the highest rates of lung cancer.