Cancer threat from radon gas has been underestimated, report says

MORE PEOPLE than previously thought could be at risk of lung cancer from radioactive gas seeping into homes in Montgomeryshire and Ceredigion, scientists say. A new study warns that radon is responsible for 1,000 lung cancer deaths in Britain each year, and that the threat to health begins at far lower concentrations than claimed by UK radiation watchdogs.

Even before the latest alert, the National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB) had identified about 750 homes in Ceredigion where the colourless and odourless gas could be at or above the Government's action level. Up to 10 per cent of homes in the Llangurig and Llanidloes areas could also be above the action level, which is based on a radon concentration much higher than levels now thought to pose a health risk.

The gas, caused by disintegration of uranium in soil and rocks, fails to disperse in small buildings, creating particles that can damage cells lining the airways and lead to cancer. Most radon, when breathed in, is exhaled, but some of the particles can become attached to the lungs, exposing them to radiation. For smokers, whose lungs are already damaged, the danger is far greater.

The new research, funded by the EC and Cancer Research UK and led by Oxford University experts, reveals that radon's threat to health begins at much lower concentrations than the levels above which UK residents are currently advised to improve ventilation of their homes. This means that many more homes in the two counties could have hazardous gas levels.

Householders in Flintshire, where an Assembly pilot study on radon is being carried out, will usher in training for council officials, clinicians, local builders and solicitors involved in conveyancing. Twenty per cent of householders in the county have already accepted offers of free surveys. Martin Green, one of the scientists in the NRPB's radon programme, told the Cambrian News: "Householders in Flintshire have been offered free surveys to detect radon and over 20 per cent have accepted.

The pilot programme by the National Assembly in that county will include training for council officials, clinicians, local builders and solicitors in relation to radon and conveyancing. "Radon is a natural radioactive gas which is responsible for the greatest radiation exposure of people in the UK. The results from the new study, which was a large and important epidemiological study, confirm that high levels of radon pose a hazard in the home. Moreover, it demonstrates a detectable risk at radon gas concentrations below remedial action levels currently used in most EU countries, including the UK."

The findings could lead to changes in building rules for new homes to protect against radon, as well as far tougher advice to householders on making existing buildings safer. The NRPB says it has not yet decided if it will change its recommendations to the Government on action levels, and its expert panels will consider this issue.  For more details ring the free NRPB Hotline: 0800-614529.