DES MOINES, Iowa — January is National Radon Action Month, which means it is time to test your home for naturally occurring radioactive gas.
While you can’t see, smell, or taste it, if radon is in your home, it can cause serious health conditions.
Radon is the number two cause of lung cancer. Experts recommend that you use a test kit to check your home every five to ten years. Two inexpensive test kits can be found for less than $15 at the American Lung Association Store. Test kits can also be found at local hardware stores.
Heather Johnson with the American Lung Association in Iowa tells us, “According to the EPA, all of Iowa is zone one for radon, which means that over 50% of homes have an elevated level of radon.”
While potential health impacts vary Dr. Matthew Trump, a Pulmonologist at the Iowa Clinic says, “As far as exposure, length of time, concentrations, obviously higher concentrations are more concerning, but we typically live in our homes for a few years, and so we do see greater incidences of cancer with longer exposure there too.”
Trump went on to say that anyone experiencing strange symptoms after being exposed to radon should get tested and talk to a doctor.
The American Lung Association is helping to bring more attention to lung disease research later this year during their annual ‘Fight for Air Climb’. This year’s event will take place at 7 a.m. on Sunday, March 30th.
There are four downtown Des Moines locations; EMC Insurance Companies, The Financial Center, Hub Tower and the Ruan. All four locations are equivalent to 85 floors and 1,796 steps.
By participating in the climb, your $35 registration fee directly supports people with lung disease.
To help spread the message about radon’s health hazards, the Iowa Department of Public Health and The American Lung Association are partnering with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 7, and the Iowa Radon Coalition to host a statewide Radon Poster Contest now through March 15th for kids ages nine to 14.
To see past winners and contest details go to lung.org.
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