Radon

Radon is an odourless gas that is produced by the breakdown of uranium in the Earth's crust. It emanates from the ground and diffuses into the air. Radon enters our lungs with the air we breathe, however it is greatly diluted resulting in concentrations too low to be of concern. But when radon seeps into a house, it tends to accumulate in the lower levels of the home, especially in winter because windows are closed.

A recent study conducted by Health Canada in 15,000 homes across the country shows that one in ten houses in Quebec had a radon problem, meaning the radon concentration exceeded 200 becquerels per cubic metre.

Health effects

Long-term exposure to radon is a risk factor for lung cancer. In Quebec, this risk factor is second only to smoking tobacco. As a preventive measure, it is recommended to have your home tested. If a high level of radon is detected, there are certain measures that can be taken to correct the situation. We invite you to consult the information prepared by the Société d'habitation du Québec with regard to what needs to be done.You can also visit the Government of Québec’s health portal to learn more about residential radon.

To know more

Visitez le site de l'Association pulmonaire du Québec. Vous y trouverez plein de renseignements sur ce gaz et ses effets.