A Radon Success Story in Iowa
Radon Success Story in Iowa
With national campaigns being waged to raise awareness about harmful radon gas, Iowa is the most recent state to achieve positive results in the battle against radon-induced cancer. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) published a study calling radon awareness and testing efforts a success, though not without some challenges.
Since 2010, Iowa, through the Iowa Cancer Consortium (ICC) and the Iowa Radon Coalition (IRC), has engaged in a multi-faceted approach to increase public concern about radon gas and decrease the occurrences of radon-induced lung cancer. A study found that 42% of cancer patients in Iowa and nationally included language about radon. Additionally, it was also discovered that 70% of homes in Iowa had radon concentrations above 4.0 pCi/L, the level at which the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) recommends action. Without drastic measures, thousands of Iowa citizens faced potential health risks from radon.
Fortunately, with the help of the IRC, radon testing in Iowa has increased by 20% and mitigation by 108% since 2010. The collaborative nature of the group's efforts, itself made up of members from all kinds of sectors and organizations - everything from the University of Iowa to the American Lung Association - caused its success. Materials were distributed at local levels, a social media campaign was maintained, many events were held, and legislative action was taken to improve awareness and practices. Other methods included helping homeowners finance radon mitigation and handing out free in-home testing kits.
Overall, the coordination of the entire program drove its positive outcomes in improving radon mitigation. While there is still much work to do in Iowa and across the country to make sure families are living in radon-free homes, the CDC commends this effort and suggests that other states mirror Iowa when engaging in their own fights against radon.
If you're concerned about radon in your home, acting sooner rather than later is key. National Radon Defense dealers are fully trained and certified to provide lasting solutions to lower radon levels, all custom-designed for your home. Find a local dealer near you to schedule a free estimate for radon testing or mitigation!
Read the full CDC study here.
