Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It can enter homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer, making it a significant health concern.

The only way to know if your home has radon is to test for it. Radon testing kits are available for purchase or can be obtained from a professional radon tester. Testing is straightforward and can provide you with information about your home's radon levels.

Radon is typically tested using either short-term or long-term testing devices. Short-term tests are usually left in place for 2-7 days, while long-term tests remain for 3 months or more. Long-term tests provide a more accurate average of radon levels over time. Testing can be done by homeowners using kits or by hiring a professional radon tester.

If your radon levels are above Health Canada's recommended action level of 200 Bq/m³ (becquerels per cubic meter), you should take steps to reduce the radon levels in your home. This usually involves radon mitigation, which can include installing a radon reduction system or improving ventilation.

Yes, radon levels can vary with the seasons. In general, radon levels tend to be higher in the winter when homes are sealed tightly and ventilation is reduced. However, it’s important to test year-round to get an accurate measurement of average radon levels.

Radon exposure is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. 16% of lung cancers are estimated to be from radon exposure, resulting more than 3,000 lung cancer deaths in Canada each year. People who smoke and are exposed to radon have an even higher risk of lung cancer.

For individuals exposed to radon levels of 800 Bq/m³ over a lifetime and who are also smokers, the risk of developing lung cancer is approximately 30%.