Health unit looks for study volunteers
Elgin Street homes. By Cecilia Nasmith, Northumberland 89.7 FM News.
By Cecilia Nasmith
Lakelands Public Health is looking for members of the community willing to participate in the Evict Radon National Study.
In support of this study, the health unit is offering 750 free radon test kits to those members of the community willing to set up the device for at least 91 days – after which they will send the kit in the pre-paid envelope provided for analysis.
Medical Officer of Health and Lakelands Chief Executive Officer Dr. Thomas Piggott said in the announcement that the Lakelands region has been identified as high priority for the Evict Radon researchers - “not necessarily because there are high levels of radon in our area, but because there is insufficient data about the radon levels in our area.
“The study results will help us learn more about radon levels in our community to support future programming so that we can work with municipalities to better understand and mitigate local risks.”
A naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium found in rocks and soil, radon can seep into cracks, gaps and openings in a home's foundation. Over time, there is the potential for harmful build-up of radioactive particles in the lungs. After tobacco smoke, radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in Canada.
Kits are limited to one per household, and they are available at public libraries throughout the county. For a complete list, visit LakelandsPH.ca/radon
