Monday, September 29, College of the Rockies – Continuing Education and Contract Training and the Canadian Cancer Society are partnering to offer a free, Radon Public Information Forum.

Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the East Kootenay is a recognized hot spot with high radon potential.

Health Promotion Coordinator Jenny Byford with the Canadian Cancer Society and local radon expert Dana Schmidt will discuss the health risks of radon exposure, radon levels in the Kootenays, how to test for it and what to do if you have it in your home. The forum will run from 6-8 p.m. in the College of the Rockies main lecture theatre in Cranbrook and is open to everyone.

Radon is a naturally occurring, colourless, odourless cancer-causing gas that can build up in your home. Caused by the natural decay of uranium in rocks and soil, radon is present everywhere in Canada in varying degrees.

A recent Health Canada survey of radon concentrations estimates at least 19% of homes in the East Kootenay Health Service Delivery Area have radon levels higher than the recommended guideline. Radon is responsible for about 16% of all lung cancer deaths.

In B.C., an estimated 3,050 new lung cancer cases are expected for 2014 and 2,450 lung cancer deaths are expected. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women and takes the lives of more Canadians that breast, prostate and colorectal cancers combined.

“Radon is a serious health concern, but undue exposure is preventable,” says Byford. “Radon testing can be inexpensive and easy, and this forum is a great opportunity to ask questions and learn how to reduce your cancer risk.”

The Canadian Cancer Society believes people have the right to know if they are being exposed to cancer causing substances in their homes, environment or workplaces. The Canadian Cancer Society recommends everyone should measure the radon levels in the home to see how they relate to the recommended guidelines.

Learn more at the College of the Rockies on Sept. 29 from 6-8 p.m. For any questions, or to reserve your seat, contact the Canadian Cancer Society at 250-426-8916.

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