Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up inside homes and workplaces. While it’s invisible and has no taste or smell, radon is a serious threat to our health. In fact, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and as such has become increasingly under the scientific spotlight. For years, radon has been viewed primarily as a threat to our respiratory health. But emerging research is now pushing the boundaries of what we know and what we need to do.
At PropertECO, we’ve spent years helping people understand and protect themselves from radon. As we learn more, it’s clear that the way we manage and respond to radon is going to continuously change. Here’s a look at how our learnings on radon is evolving and what that means for the future of health, homes, and building standards.
A Clearer Connection Between Radon and Lung Cancer
For decades, it was difficult to tell whether someone’s lung cancer was caused by radon, smoking or something else. But we’ve now entered a new era. Advances in genetic and molecular science are now uncovering the possibility of identifying radon-induced lung cancer through specific oncological markers. Essentially, scientists are now discovering possible clues in our genes and tiny changes in our cells that might point directly to radon exposure.
While this research is ongoing, the implications are significant. If scientists can pinpoint a specific marker of radon exposure, this evidence can help shape occupational safety rules. What’s more, it can also open the door to clearer liability frameworks, protecting and compensating people who have been exposed to radon over time.
Not Just Lung Cancer
Traditionally, radon has been associated almost exclusively with lung cancer. But new studies now suggest it might also be linked to other serious health conditions, including kidney and brain cancer, heart problems and even diseases that affect memory and the nervous system (e.g. Kleinschmidt et al., 2018; Lu et al., 2022).
With radon not just something to worry about for your lungs and potentially being a wider public health imperative, future policies will need to address any broader risk with more urgent intervention.
A ‘Creeping Disaster’
Unlike catastrophic events such as chemical spills or explosions, radon exposure is silent, slow and cumulative. It seeps unnoticed into homes, workplaces and schools, and isn’t at all detectable without proper testing. It’s what some experts now term a ‘creeping disaster’. Because of this, regulatory response has often lagged far behind the science. Experts are now calling for stronger, faster and even preemptive action from governments, builders and health professionals alike.
So, What Does the Future of Radon Protection Look Like?
Better Radon Maps
The British Geological Survey has released updated radon maps in recent years, using more detailed data to show more precisely where radon levels are likely to be highest. This means people can make more informed decisions about where they live or work and what steps to take.
Tougher Building Standards
New guidance from groups like the Building Research Establishment (BRE) is helping builders design safer homes, especially when it comes to basements and other below-ground spaces. It is now widely accepted that every underground structure should be protected from radon, no matter where it’s located.
For example, experts are also encouraging builders to combine radon protection with waterproofing right from the planning stage. This makes homes and workplaces safer and more durable in the long run.
More Public Awareness
Radon testing is simple and affordable, but many people still don’t know about it. Going forward, raising public awareness will be key. Regular testing (and re-testing after any building work) should become as routine as checking smoke alarms or servicing a boiler.
A Broader Health Approach
As scientists learn more about radon’s full impact, the rules and recommendations will likely shift to reflect a wider view of health, not just lung cancer. That includes thinking about how radon affects whole communities over time, not just individuals.
At PropertECO, we’re here to help homeowners, businesses, schools and councils test for radon and put effective mitigation solutions in place.
Want to learn more? Contact us today for advice, testing, and expert solutions to keep your property safe from radon.
