Keep your windows open or risk lung cancer – GAEC warns over deadly radon gas

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has issued a warning to Ghanaians about the potential risk of lung cancer from exposure to radon gas. To combat this, the commission is urging households to keep windows open to improve ventilation and prevent the accumulation of the radioactive gas indoors. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas generated by the decay of uranium in soil and rocks, can infiltrate buildings from the ground and build up in poorly ventilated areas, putting occupants at risk of harmful radiation levels.

Dr Eric Tetteh Glover, the Director of Radiation Protection at GAEC, emphasized that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, particularly affecting non-smokers. During his visit to the Commission, Dr Glover disclosed that GAEC is collaborating with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ghana Standards Authority to implement measures requiring radon assessments before construction.

These measures aim to identify areas with high radon concentrations and design buildings to minimize exposure. The Commission also plans to establish guidelines for construction in high radon regions, including ventilation requirements. Radon poses a significant health risk when inhaled, as its radioactive properties can damage lung tissue and elevate the risk of cancer, according to Dr Glover.

He noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) considers radon the second leading cause of lung cancer, especially among non-smokers. Radon testing is already a standard practice in radon-prone regions of developed countries before construction begins, but Ghana lacks the necessary facilities for such testing. GAEC is working to develop the capacity to conduct radon testing and strengthen preventive measures against radon exposure.

The Commission is also collaborating with the Minerals Commission and the Chamber of Mines to enhance ventilation in mining environments, where miners may spend extended periods underground and are at risk of prolonged radon exposure.