Protect your health, check radon levels

Radon is a potential health threat to every Iowan. Most northern states like Iowa are EPA Zone 1. Zone 1 predicted average indoor radon levels are greater than 4 PCI/L. The Iowa Department of Public Health states that all 99 counties, including 70 percent of homes statewide, fall inside Zone 1 levels. Central air and more energy-efficient homes increase indoor radon levels.

Lung cancer is the major risk. Radon is a colorless, odorless, invisible radioactive gas, released from naturally decaying uranium in soil. Home exposure to radon over years increases lung cancer risks.

In 2005, University of Iowa researchers helped analyze data from seven different North American residential radon studies. The increased lung cancer risk was 11 percent to 21 percent at average residential radon concentrations of about 3.0 PCI/L during 5-30 years. The longer the exposure, the higher the lung cancer risks.

Last fall, I tested. My Coralville basement levels were 3 to 7 PCI/L. In 1993, radon was under 4pCI/L. We'd added insulation and storm doors. A certified radon specialist sealed the sump pump pit and added a mitigation system. Radon levels are now under 1 PCI/L, a safe level for us and any future owners.

Take action during January, National Radon Action Month. Iowa-approved test kits are inexpensive. Mitigate if radon levels are 2 PCI/L or above. Protect your health!

Barbara Staib

Coralville