August 1: World Lung Cancer Day

Every year, lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide. On World Lung Cancer Day, it is essential to reflect not only on the importance of early diagnosis, but also on what we can do beforehand to prevent it.

One of the least visible but increasingly recognized risk factors is the air we breathe indoors. We spend up to 90% of our time indoors: homes, offices, schools. We often think that the air within our homes is safer, but in reality it can contain a mix of pollutants: volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by paints, detergents, furniture, and building materials; fine particulate matter (PM) from smoke, cooking, and combustion, humidity and mold, which compromise respiratory quality, and radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas and the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.

When the air hides a danger: radon

“Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after tobacco smoke. Exposure to radon significantly increases the risk of developing this disease, especially in smokers.” (Source: WHO Handbook on Indoor Radon, 2009)

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless and odorless, formed by the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It can seep into buildings through cracks in floors, walls, or pipes. The WHO estimates that approximately 10% of lung cancer cases in a country are attributable to radon, depending on average exposure levels.

Considering that it cannot be seen or smelled, the only way to protect yourself from radon is to measure its concentration in closed environments and take action if the values exceed the recommended limits.

In Italy, Legislative Decree 101/2020 implements European directives and requires monitoring in areas at risk and in specific workplaces.

Prevention starts with monitoring

Constantly monitoring these parameters means taking proactive action.

With Radoff devices, you can monitor air quality in real time and take corrective action in case of critical issues. Investing in indoor air quality is an act of daily care for ourselves and our loved ones. On this day, let’s also make it a concrete gesture of prevention.

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