Radon awareness among Irish adults has declined significantly, dropping from 82% in 2020 to 71% in 2025, according to a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) survey. Even more concerning, more than half of respondents were unaware that radon exposure is linked to lung cancer, and fewer than half of those aware of radon actually test their homes.

The EPA survey, which included over 1,000 adults, reveals a troubling gap between awareness and action. Radon is Ireland's largest source of radiation exposure and accounts for more than half of the radiation dose received by the Irish population. The gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, linked to approximately 350 new lung cancer cases annually in Ireland.

Why Is Radon Awareness Declining?

The survey findings suggest that public concern about radiation is shifting away from the most significant health threat in Irish homes. Only 31% of respondents expressed concern about radiation overall, and many believe their property is not affected by radon. This misplaced confidence is particularly dangerous given that radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas formed from uranium decay in rocks and soil.

Radon has no smell, color, or taste, making it impossible to detect without specialized testing. The gas enters homes through small cracks in floors and gaps around pipes or cables. Once inside, it accumulates to dangerous levels, especially in ground-floor rooms and basements where families spend significant time. About one-third of Ireland is classified as a high radon area, though the EPA recommends all homeowners test regardless of location.

"The EPA is concerned to see a decline in radon awareness, and the continued reluctance among householders to test their homes. We found that many believe that their property is not affected. This is particularly worrying given that radon is our largest source of radiation exposure and a leading cause of lung cancer," said Patrick Byrne, EPA Director of the Office of Radiation Protection and Environmental Monitoring.

Patrick Byrne, EPA Director of the Office of Radiation Protection and Environmental Monitoring

How to Test and Reduce Radon in Your Home

• Testing Process: The EPA recommends a simple three-month test using two small detectors sent by post. One detector is placed in the bedroom and one in the living room, the areas where families spend the most time. After three months, detectors are returned for analysis, and results are mailed with remediation advice if needed.
• Cost and Accessibility: Testing costs approximately 50 euros and requires no home visits. The EPA website provides a list of registered radon measurement services that handle the entire process by post, making testing accessible to all homeowners regardless of location.
• Remediation Solutions: Radon problems can be fixed easily and usually without disruption to the household. The EPA provides a booklet titled "Understanding Radon Remediation: A Householder's Guide" to help homeowners learn about available solutions and choose the best approach for their situation.

The disconnect between awareness and testing behavior suggests that public education efforts need strengthening. Even among those who know radon exists, fewer than half take the simple step of testing their homes. This hesitation may stem from misconceptions about cost, complexity, or personal risk.

The EPA is using these survey findings to strengthen awareness campaigns under the National Radon Control Strategy, a coordinated effort led by the Department of the Climate, Energy and the Environment. The strategy brings together multiple government departments and agencies to reduce radon risk through testing and remediation initiatives.

For homeowners concerned about radon exposure, checking the EPA's interactive radon risk map can provide location-specific information about local radon levels. The map helps residents understand whether they live in a designated high radon area, though the EPA emphasizes that testing is recommended for all homes nationwide.