Scientists are calling for more houses to be protected against the cancer causing, radioactive gas radon. A study by the European Commission and Cancer Research said that 36% of radon induced lung cancers occur in homes with concentrations of less than 25 becquerels per cubic metre (bq/m3). Currently housebuilders are only required to radon proof new homes with more than a 3% chance of radon levels exceeding 200bq/cubic m. Sarah Darby, who worked on the study, wants all homes protected because “there is now good evidence that radon is at risk everywhere”. However Chris Scivyer, a British Research Establishment senior consultant, says: “The approach up to now has been to hit the top levels first.” The BRE added that homes constructed to current building regulations would provide adequate radon protection at lower levels.