Map shows parts of Sussex most affected by radioactive radon

The UK Health Security Agency has published a map which shows the levels of radioactive gas radon in our towns and cities.

Over time, exposure to this gas can cause lung cancer - and is responsible for 1,100 deaths each year.

Much of Sussex is at an elevated risk compared to the rest of the UK - with homes along the coast typically at a maximum 30 per cent risk. 

The gas is colourless, odourless and tasteless and formed by radioactive decay from the small amounts of uranium that can be found naturally in all rocks and soils.

Radon levels in Brighton and Hove (Image: UKHSA)

Homes near Lewes and Westdean, near Seaford, are most at risk with a 30 per cent radon potential.

In Eastbourne, homes in the west end are more at risk than those in the east - with less than one per cent of homes at the action level in the east end of the town.

Central Brighton sits at a three to five per cent radon potential while Hove is at a 10-30 per cent risk.

You can find out if your home is affected by using this interactive map.

In Mid Sussex, north of the South Downs, there is little to no risk with less than one per cent of homes near the level which requires action.

The map highlights areas most affected in a darker colour.

The United Kingdom Health Security Agency recommends that radon levels should be reduced in homes where the annual average is at or above 200 becquerels per cubic metre (200 Bq m-3).

This level is known as the action level.

Radon-affected areas are described as those with a one per cent chance or more of a house having a radon concentration at or above the Action Level of 200 Bq m-3.

The higher the radon levels and the longer the exposure, the greater someone is at risk of lung cancer. It is also greater if someone is a smoker, or has ever smoked.

The gas produces radioactive dust in the air we breathe, which then gets trapped in airways emitting radiation which damages the inside of lungs.

Public health officials say every building contains radon and levels are usually low, but there are hotspots across the country, caused by the type of ground buildings were constructed on.

People concerned about the radon risk in their area can purchase a Radon Risk Report for £3.90 from the UK Government website, which will say if your home is in an affected area.

If it is, UK Radon suggests the levels in your home are measured. You will be posted two detectors to place in your home one in the living area and one in an occupied bedroom.

After three months you post the detectors back for them to be analysed. The results are then posted back to you. This will cost £52.80.