Every home should be tested for radon

The question and answer exchange in the Dec. 11 Home section is woefully off track when it comes to radon. High levels of radon in the home present a serious public health risk and should be mitigated.

There have been significant gains in knowledge about radon in the last 20 years. In fact, based on this growing body of scientific research, the World Health Organization, the American Cancer Society and the American Lung Association now actively educate the public on its dangers. A naturally occurring, radioactive gas, radon is colorless, odorless and tasteless, often misleading homeowners into believing it is also harmless. Radon concentrations vary widely in the United States due to variations in radon source material - radium -226. This is why your home's radon levels might be safe, while your next door neighbor's home could be dangerously high.

Iowa has the highest average radon concentrations in the United States. Scientific studies conducted at the University of Iowa support estimates of approximately 400 radon-induced lung cancer deaths per year in Iowa. By comparison, this exceeds the annual number of traffic fatalities for the state (329 in 2011).

All homes should be tested, and if radon levels exceed 4 pCi/L, mitigation should be pursued. Test kits are available through the American Lung Association at 1-(800) 788-5864. Additional information about radon, research, mitigation, and health effects can be obtained at www.healthhouse.org/radon/ia_radon.cfm or by calling the Iowa Radon Hotline at 1 (800) 383-5992.

Nancy Wyland

Coralville