The Prairies have the second highest radon levels in the world, behind only Poland, according to new research that shows the story gets worse for Saskatchewan, and worse again in Regina. 

The Lung Association says radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer next to smoking.

Radon gas is the number one cause of lung cancer for non-smokers and it can often seep into homes undetected. 

“We need to know exactly what factors influence high and low radon in Canadian homes."

Radon is odourless, colourless and is linked to an increased risk of developing lung cancer.

Summerland Healthy Community Initiative is hosting an awareness information session on radon gas.

The public health unit is handing out 850 radon tests for free in the Hastings and Prince Edward region.

Radon is an established cause of lung cancer and concentrations of odourless gas can vary across geographic regions.

Officials are warning people in the Okanagan to get their homes tested for radon. Nearly one in five homes test above provincial guidelines.

Session will take place on Monday evening at Okanagan College in Salmon Arm.