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Know your environment
Many Canadians are worried about whether anything around them at home and work causes cancer. Any substance that is known to cause cancer is called a carcinogen.
The Canadian Cancer Society shares your concerns. We believe that you shouldn’t be exposed to carcinogens at work, at home or in the environment. But we need a lot more research to help us understand what is and what isn’t linked to cancer.
We believe carcinogens should be replaced with safer options. If it isn’t possible to get rid of a carcinogen or find something safer, reduce the time you spend around it as much as possible.
In this section, you’ll find lots of information about some carcinogens in the environment that may be harmful – and learn how to protect yourself or use them safely.
Know your environment
- Does your environment put you at risk for cancer?
- 3 smart ways to reduce your exposure to carcinogens
- How much do you know about the risks in your environment? (quiz)
Air pollution
- What is air pollution – and why is it dangerous?
- Air pollution and cancer
- How many cancer cases are due to air pollution?
- 4 ways to reduce your exposure to air pollution – outside
- 7 ways to reduce your exposure to air pollution – indoors
Arsenic
- What is arsenic – and how are we exposed to it?
- Arsenic and cancer
- The #1 thing to do if you have a private well
- Should I drink bottled water instead of tap water?
Asbestos
- What is asbestos?
- Asbestos and cancer
- In your community and at home: how you may be exposed to asbestos
Formaldehyde
- What is formaldehyde – and how are we exposed to it?
- Formaldehyde and cancer
- 7 ways to reduce your exposure to formaldehyde at home
Medical radiation
Radon
- What is radon – and how are we exposed to it?
- Radon and cancer
- How many cancer cases are due to radon?
- Test your home for radon – here’s how
