Radon is an odorless, colorless, tasteless naturally occurring radioactive gas that causes no immediate health symptoms, but long-term exposures may cause lung cancer. Iowa has the highest rate of elevated radon levels in the country, with five out of seven homes testing above a safe level.
Radon comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil. It seeps into a house the same way air or other soil gases enter: from the soil around and under the home; through cracks in the foundation, floor or walls; through hollow-block walls; and through openings around floor drains, pipes and sump pumps.
Radon test kits are simple to use and typically cost less than $20. To order a test kit, call the Radon Hotline at 1-800-383-5992. To learn more about radon, visit http://idph.iowa.gov/radon.