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When most people think about lung cancer, they think about smoking. And while smoking remains the leading cause, many Canadians are surprised to learn that radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada — and the leading cause among non-smokers.
Unlike smoking, radon is invisible, odorless, and naturally occurring. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it — but it may be present in your home right now. We are going to tell you all you need to know about radon, highlight the University of Calgary’s Evict Radon study and tell you how to test your home.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas produced by the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It exists outdoors in low concentrations and usually disperses harmlessly into the air.
The concern arises when radon seeps into enclosed spaces — particularly homes.
Radon can enter through:
Once inside, radon can accumulate to high levels, especially during Canadian winters when windows and doors remain closed.
Importantly, both old and new homes can have elevated radon levels. The only way to know your home’s level is to test.
Radon and Lung Cancer: The Science
When radon gas is inhaled, it breaks down into radioactive particles. These particles become trapped in the lungs and emit radiation that damages lung tissue.
Over time, this radiation can cause DNA damage in lung cells. With prolonged exposure, that damage increases the risk of developing lung cancer.
According to Health Canada, radon exposure is responsible for approximately 16% of lung cancer deaths in Canada, resulting in more than 3,000 deaths each year [1].
For smokers, radon exposure significantly amplifies lung cancer risk. However, even people who have never smoked can develop radon-induced lung cancer.
Women over 40 tend to be the ones who act on this information. They are frequently owners of a home and spend significant time there. They also tend to be decision-makers about household health and safety and focused on prevention and proactive health measures
Radon testing is one of the few cancer risk factors that can be totally eliminated once identified.
How Common Is Radon in Canada?
Radon is a nationwide issue.
Health Canada estimates that approximately 1 in 6 Canadian homes has radon levels above the national guideline of 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³) [1].
Elevated levels have been found in every province and territory.
While some areas (including parts of the Prairies, Ontario, and New Brunswick) report higher averages, no region is considered risk-free.
Winter months often produce higher indoor radon levels due to:
Canadian Research Leading the Way
Researchers at the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine, led by Dr. Aaron Goodarzi, are advancing national understanding of radon exposure through the Evict Radon National Study, a Canada-wide research initiative examining how radon accumulates in homes and contributes to lung cancer risk.
This transdisciplinary project partners with public health organizations to map exposure patterns across the country and explore innovative approaches to measuring long-term risk.
Importantly, the study includes a strong citizen-science component: Canadians can participate by testing their homes with long-term radon kitsand contributing their results to help researchers build a clearer national picture of radon exposure.
By taking part, homeowners not only learn their own radon levels but also contribute valuable data that supports prevention efforts and strengthens public health policy across Canada.
Testing Is Simple and Affordable
Testing your home for radon is straightforward.
Health Canada recommends:
Long-term tests provide the most accurate average exposure measurement.
Radon test kits are widely available, but make sure that the one you buy is approved by CNRPP - C-NRPP certified radon detectors, are tested to ensure that they meet strict accuracy standards
The cost is minimal and it’s easy to make sure you that you don’t have a problem.
What If Your Levels Are High? It Can Be Fixed!
If your home tests above 200 Bq/m³, certified radon mitigation professionals can install systems to reduce levels.
The most common solution is a sub-slab depressurization system, which safely vents radon gas from beneath the home to the outside. Ensure this work is done properly designed and installed by a certified radon mitigation professional that is certified by C-NRPP - Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program
In this system, a certified professional installs a pipe through the foundation slab or basement floor that connects to a specialized fan, which continuously draws radon gas from beneath the home and safely vents it above the roofline, where it disperses harmlessly into the outdoor air.
Sealing cracks and gaps in the foundation may also be done to improve efficiency, though sealing alone is not sufficient. In homes with crawl spaces, a sealed membrane and venting system may be installed.
According to Health Canada and the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP), properly installed mitigation systems can reduce radon levels by more than 80% [3].
After mitigation, lung cancer risk decreases over time as exposure drops.
The Bottom Line
After smoking, radon exposure is Canada’s second leading cause of lung cancer — and it affects both smokers and non-smokers.
Because radon is invisible and symptom-free until disease develops, testing is the only way to know your risk.
As we move through winter and spend more time indoors, this is an ideal moment to take a simple, evidence-based step that could significantly reduce long-term cancer risk.
Your lungs — and your future self — are worth it.
