Short answer: Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that seeps up from the soil into homes through foundation cracks and openings. It's the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, and Iowa has some of the highest radon levels in the country.
Radon is a gas. You cannot see it. You cannot smell it. You cannot taste it.
Radon comes from the ground. Rocks and dirt have a metal in them called uranium. Over time, uranium breaks down and makes radon gas. The gas moves up through the dirt and can get into your home.
How does radon get inside?
Radon can sneak in through:
- Cracks in the floor
- Gaps around pipes
- Sump pits
- Dirt floors in crawlspaces
Once it is inside, the gas can build up, especially in basements.
Why is radon bad for you?
When you breathe radon, it can hurt your lungs. Over many years, it can cause lung cancer. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in people who do not smoke, and the EPA estimates it contributes to about 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. every year.
The good news? Radon problems can be fixed.
Is radon a problem in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa has some of the highest radon levels in the country, largely because of the glacial soil that covers most of the state, which is rich in uranium-bearing minerals. Many homes here have high levels. Your neighbor's test does not tell you about your home. Every home is different.
What should you do?
Test your home. A radon test is simple and does not cost much. If your level is 4 or higher, it is time to fix it.
