I am a student nurse currently completing an internship at the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS).
Work at the society this month has included a large amount of raising radon awareness, because it is radon "take action" month. I was shocked by how few homes in northern B.C. have been tested, and yet they have one of the highest rates of radon related to geographies.
The following quote is from the CCS website, "Radon is a colourless, odourless, tasteless radioactive gas found naturally in the environment. It is released into the air during the natural breakdown of uranium in rocks and soil.
Once released, radon breaks down into radioactive elements that can attach to dust and other substances in the air we breathe. It's also a common type of radiation exposure."
I find that information terrifying - it can be in my home and I won't even know it?
According to the CCS 16 per cent of lung cancer deaths are related to radon exposure, but there is very little publicity about testing for radon.
This month I think it is time to take action, get your home tested. The tests can be found on the fourth floor at 1600 3rd Ave (Native Friendship Centre), they are only $30 but the benefits could be invaluable. Why are more of of us not testing our homes when we could be significantly decreasing our risk of developing lung cancer?
Get your home tested.
More information can be found on the CCS websites, and the society also has links to other reputable sources.
Megan Smith, Prince George
