Your home is a place where you should feel safe and healthy - it's where you spend the majority of your time, after all. Unfortunately, many homes come with hidden health risks that can increase your chance of developing serious diseases like lung cancer.
Common hidden hazards include asbestos, radon, and lead paint. All of these hazards can be controlled, but only once you've identified them. Read on for details on how your home could be damaging your health, and what you need to to do to make sure it's safe.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a versatile material that was widely used in building until it was found to cause serious health problems. Exposure to asbestos can lead to various forms of lung disease, several of which are fatal. If your home was built before 2000, when asbestos was banned, then there's a risk that it may still contain this hazardous material.
Common uses of asbestos are textured wall coverings, asbestos cement roofs and pipes, and textured floor tiles. If you do discover asbestos, don't panic. This material is only dangerous when it is disrupted and particles are released into the air, and in some cases it can be safer to leave asbestos than to have it removed. Contact an asbestos removal specialist for advice. In the event that asbestos does need to be removed, they will be able to do so safely and without any risk to you or your family.
Radon
Radon is an invisible, odourless gas that has been shown to contribute to the risk of lung cancer. Radon is produced by natural decay in soil, and can enter your home through cracks in your walls or foundation. A home lacking proper ventilation can end up with dangerously high levels of radon. To make sure your family isn't affected, you should purchase a radon testing kit. If you find that your home does contain a high concentration of radon, you'll need to contact an expert for help. Solutions will involve increasing ventilation and sealing floors and walls.
Lead Paint
Lead paint is common in homes that were built before 1970, and is often hidden under layers of newer paint. Lead poisoning is a massive risk to young children, and can lead to serious and long-lasting problems like learning difficulties, memory problems and ADHD. In adults, lead poisoning can cause an increased risk of heart disease. If you suspect that your home contains lead paint, have it checked by an expert. Repairs to chipped and flaking paint will help reduce the risk of lead poisoning, but they need to be carried out properly.
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