Radon is a naturally occurring gas produced from the radioactive decay of uranium in rocks and soil. It is colourless, odourless and tasteless. Recent studies have shown that the Western Canadian Prairie provinces are the second most Radon exposed populations on the planet. Radon gas seeps into homes through cracks in walls, floors, foundations, floor drains and sumps. Houses in cold climates are at particular risk since windows and doors are kept closed for over half the year, which allows the Radon gas to accumulate to such dangerous levels. It is recommended to get Radon testing every two years as any major ground disturbance (i.e. road construction) within 5 km's of the home can drastically affect your levels. 

Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in Canada, accounting for about 16 percent of cases or 3,300 deaths per year. Radon is a Class 1 carcinogen meaning a direct link to cancer has been established by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Lung cancer is caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of Radon gas. A 2009-11 national study of 14,000 homes showed more than 1,500 had unacceptable levels. Some studies have also indicated that due to children having higher respiratory rates, they are more likely to inhale Radon and cause damage on a cellular level. This damage being incurred in childhood allows for more time for cancer cells to form due to the amount of life left to live.