THIS is the invisible killer gas that causes lung cancer and could be lurking in YOUR home.
Radon, which is a radioactive gas, is found in areas of the south west of England, and Wales.
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Above-average levels of radon radiation in Cornwall remain a silent and invisible killer – as the colourless and odourless gas is the second-highest cause of lung cancer.
According to the Government, the most significant and variable contributor to radiation doses to the general population is radon.
The majority of homes in Cornwall are in the highest category of radon-affected areas thanks to a large granite presence, reports CornwallLive.
This means that some people living in homes pose a greater risk of radiation absorption compared to if they were working in a nuclear plant.
The worst affected areas in the region include Penzance, Bodmin Moor, St Austell and Camborne, Redruth, and Helston.
At least 1 percent of homes have levels above the “Action Level” – this means that preventative measures must be taken.
The radon levels in Wales are very high. However, the Peak District is home to the highest level of radon exposure.
Due to the ground it is built on, the Yorkshire Dales is in the top band.
Radiation exposure for longer periods of time is more dangerous than it used to be.
People who smoke and live in high-radiation areas are at greatest risk.
There are many things that can be done to lower radon levels at home, including sealing up loft hatches or sealing large gaps in floors.
You can also increase ventilation to your home in order reduce radon levels.
Radon sumps are made with a fan fitted under floorboards that blows fresh air into the buildings.
What is radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that emits no odour and has no colour.
Radon is formed from radioactive decay of small amounts uranium, which naturally occur in all rocks and soils.
Radioactive elements are radioactive and can emit radiation. Exposure to this radiation can pose a health risk. Radiation is a form energy that can cause damage to living tissues, increasing the chance of developing cancer.
Public Health England states that more than 1,100 people die each year from lung cancer due to radon exposure in the UK.
Although radon is found in every building, the levels are typically low. The type of ground will determine if there is a higher level.
Radioactive elements that are formed from the decay of radioactive radon can enter our lungs by inhalation.
These radioactive elements remain in the lungs and continue to decompose, emitting radiation, including alpha particles.
They are absorbed into the lung tissue and cause localised damage. This can cause lung cancer.