Radon - A public health concern

January was Radon Action Month.

What is radon? Why is radon such a concern for me? 

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in the soil. 

It is colorless, odorless and tasteless, and seeps into homes through cracks, pipes or conduits, sump pumps and drain tiles, basement floor and wall joints and negative pressure. 

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the No. 1 leading cause among non-smokers.  According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Iowa has the highest percentage of homes for radon, with up to 74 percent having elevated levels. EPA estimates 399 Iowans, and approximately 21,000 people in the country, die each year from exposure to the gas.

Read full article in the Feb. 6 Tribune-Journal and Clarksville Star.