When we think of the causes of lung cancer, smoking usually tops the list (and rightly so). But lurking just behind it is another major contributor that often goes unnoticed: radon gas. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer globally. Though radon may be a naturally occurring radioactive gas, this certainly does not mean it’s harmless.
At PropertECO, we specialise in radon testing and mitigation, so we’re here to break down the science, the risks and most importantly, what you can do to protect yourself and others.
What is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that forms from the natural decay of uranium in rocks, soils and water. It’s completely invisible and you can’t see it, smell it or taste it. This is why radon tends to go unnoticed.
As radon seeps from the ground, it mixes with the other gases that make up the air we breathe and can enter buildings through surfaces in contact with the ground, and particularly through any cracks and gaps in floors and walls. While it’s quickly diluted outdoors, radon concentrations indoors can build up, especially in poorly ventilated spaces like basements.
How Does Radon Cause Lung Cancer?
With radon forming a natural part of the air around us, we are inevitably going to inhale it over our lifetimes. When exposed to low levels, the number of particles inhaled is not usually enough to cause damage. When we inhale radon gas at higher concentrations however, the possibility that these tiny radioactive particles stick to the cells that line our lungs increases. Over time, the radiation can damage the DNA in our cells, which can potentially lead to the formation of lung cancer tumours.
The World Health Organization reports that radon is responsible for between 3–14% of all lung cancers. This does depend on the country’s average radon level and smoking prevalence. In the UK, Cancer Research UK estimates that around 5% of lung cancer cases are related to radon (that’s 1 in 20).
This risk is again exacerbated if you smoke. In fact, smokers are 25 times more at risk from radon related lung cancer than non-smokers.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
Lung cancer is a serious global health issue:
- It’s the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
- It accounts for around 20% of all cancer deaths.
- It’s the deadliest cancer in men and the second deadliest in women.
- Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
- The WHO has also found that the risk of lung cancer increases by about 16% for every 100 Bq/m³ increase in long-term average radon exposure. And this relationship is linear, meaning the risk keeps climbing as radon levels rise.
Where Are Radon Levels Highest?
While outdoor radon levels are usually low (between 5–15 Bq/m³), indoor spaces can reach concerningly high concentrations, especially in:
- Basements
- Mines, caves or other underground environments
- Properties located in a radon affected area
Radon levels inside buildings can vary from less than 10 Bq/m³ to over 10,000 Bq/m³, particularly in areas with poor ventilation or in radon “hotspots.” To put that in perspective, the UK has a target of keeping levels below 100 Bq/m3 in homes.
The only way to really know how much radon is in your property is to carry out a radon test.
Are There Symptoms of Radon Exposure?
Here’s what’s tricky: there are no early warning signs specific to radon exposure. .
The symptoms typically appear only when lung cancer has already developed, and can include:
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood
That’s why prevention and early detection are key. You can’t smell it, you can’t feel it, but you can test for it.
What Can You Do About It?
The good news? You can mitigate your exposure to radon.
Step 1: Test
Testing is quick, affordable, and simple. At PropertECO, we offer:
- Passive radon detectors: discreet and ideal for long-term monitoring in homes or offices
- Digital radon monitors: for real-time readings and continuous monitoring
Whether you’re a homeowner, employer, or landlord, testing your property is the first step in managing the risk of radon exposure. You can order a test kit today via our Radon Shop.
Step 2: Mitigate
If high levels are found, don’t panic – radon mitigation is highly effective. Our expert team designs and installs bespoke mitigation systems to safely reduce radon levels and ensure your indoor environment is safe.
Common radon mitigation solutions include:
- Radon Sump Systems
- A radon sump works by drawing radon gas from beneath your property and venting it safely outside.
- Ideal for properties with high radon concentrations, particularly those with solid floors or basements.
- Positive Pressure Systems
- These systems introduce fresh air into your property, diluting radon levels and inhibiting the draw of gas from the ground. .
- Often suitable for properties with lower radon levels or specific construction features.
Take Radon Seriously, it’s a Real Risk
Radon is a silent threat, but one that we can do something about. While it may not be the most well-known hazard in your home or workplace, the data doesn’t lie. The link between radon and lung cancer is real and well documented.
Testing for radon is one of the easiest and most impactful steps you can take to protect your health, your family, and your employees.
PropertECO: Your Radon Experts
At PropertECO, we’re committed to helping you identify and reduce radon risks. We work with homeowners, businesses, schools and local authorities across the UK to provide:
- Professional radon testing
- Expert mitigation solutions
- Ongoing support and advice
Click here to learn more about our radon services and explore our range of testing kits.
Any questions? Call us on 0800 046 6193 or fill out our contact form to speak to a radon specialist today.
