Are your home renovation habits increasing your cancer risk?

Ah, home renovations. Fresh paint, new furniture, upgraded appliances. While home improvement projects can breathe new life into your home, some renovation habits may unknowingly increase your exposure to cancer-causing substances. 

According to Ryan Sinclair, PhD, MPH, professor of Environmental Microbiology at Loma Linda University, common building materials found in older homes can expose homeowners to hazardous substances such as asbestos and lead when disturbed during renovations. 

What are asbestos and lead? 

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials because of its insulating and fire-resistant properties. Similarly, lead is a naturally occurring metal that was once widely used in paint, water pipes, and other building materials. 

During renovation projects, activities such as removing flooring, stripping paint, sanding, or drilling can disturb these materials and release harmful particles into the air. 

"When asbestos is buried beneath paint or insulation, it doesn't really pose a hazard," Sinclair says. "But the moment it's disturbed and becomes airborne, the risk of exposure increases." 

Aside from increasing the risk of developing cancer, asbestos and lead can also cause severe long-term damage to the lungs and brain, especially in children. Lead can damage cognitive and neurological symptoms and has even been linked to ADHD-like symptoms.  

Ways to stay safe when renovating  

Here are a few tips Sinclair recommends homeowners keep in mind before starting a renovation project. 

Know when your home was built 

According to Sinclair, if your home was built before 1978, it's safest to assume lead-based paint may be present. 

"Since lead-based paint wasn't completely banned until 1978, many homes built before then contain lead," Sinclair says. 

Test for lead and asbestos 

If your home was built before 1978, or if you're unsure when it was built, consider testing for both lead and asbestos before beginning renovations. 

At-home testing kits can provide a quick and affordable way to identify whether paint, insulation, flooring, or other materials may contain these hazardous substances. 

Hire a professional when possible 

Lead and asbestos generally pose little risk when left undisturbed. However, once renovation work begins, exposure risks can increase significantly. 

Because of this, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using lead-safe certified contractors when working in homes that may contain lead-based paint. 

"Hiring a contractor when dealing with a house you suspect contains lead or asbestos is always a good idea," Sinclair says. "They can provide guidance and handle hazardous materials in a way that reduces your risk of exposure." 

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) 

If you decide to complete the work yourself, be sure to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow EPA guidelines for lead-safe renovation practices. 

Proper respiratory protection, gloves, and protective clothing can help reduce exposure to harmful dust and debris.