Radon is a colorless, tasteless and odorless gas that
affects indoor air quality in every state.
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States
and is responsible for 21,000 deaths annually in the U.S.
Radon gas forms naturally from Uranium in the soil and
rocks. Uranium breaks down to form
radium, which then breaks down to form radon gas. Radon gas enters homes and buildings through
basement floors, cracks in foundations, walls, and other openings. Once trapped indoors, radon gas can rise to
dangerous concentrations. As the radon
gas decays, it releases radioactive byproducts, that when inhaled, can cause
lung cancer.
There are no immediate health symptoms from exposure to
radon gas. Continued exposure to high
levels increases ones risk of developing lung cancer. Smoking and exposure to high levels of radon
gas greatly increase the risk of lung cancer.
Radon levels are elevated in every state. Iowa counties have a predicted average indoor
radon screening level greater than 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Every home is different. Your home can be elevated while your
neighbor’s is not. The Environmental
Protection Agency recommends fixing homes with levels greater than 4 pCi/L and
considering fixing homes with levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L.
Testing is easy and inexpensive. Most tests last between 2 and 7 days and cost
less than $25. Test kits can be
purchased through the Ida County Emergency Manager, Ed Sohm, by calling
364.2533 or at most local home improvement or hardware stores, online, or by
calling the Radon Hotline at 1-800-383-5992.
