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Radon In Iowa

Average Radon Level In Iowa: 6.1 pCi/L

The EPA advises that any home or building in Iowa with radon levels at or exceeding 4.0 pCi/L should undergo mitigation. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) sets a lower threshold, recommending action for radon concentrations of 2.7 pCi/L or above.

  • EPA's Action Level: 4.0 pCi/L
  • WHO's Action Level: 2.7 pCi/L
  • Average Level In Iowa: 6.1 pCi/L

Living or working in areas with elevated radon levels can pose significant health risks. The only reliable method to ascertain the radon concentration in your specific home or building is through radon testing. This is a crucial step in ensuring your environment is safe and adheres to recommended health standards.

Average Radon Level In Iowa

Understanding Radon in Iowa

Radon in Iowa is a significant health concern due to the state’s high radon levels. As a naturally occurring radioactive gas, radon is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified Iowa as having some of the highest radon levels in the United States, with over 70% of homes testing above the EPA’s recommended action level. This makes understanding and mitigating radon levels in Iowa crucial for the health and safety of its residents.

The Health Risks For Radon In Iowa

Exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health issues. In Iowa, these risks are particularly pronounced due to the state’s elevated radon levels. Some of the health risks associated with radon exposure include:

  • Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking.
  • Long-term exposure to high radon levels can lead to respiratory issues and other health complications.
  • Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of radon exposure.

Radon Levels in Iowa

Iowa has some of the highest radon levels in the United States. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing.

Radon Statistics in Iowa

  • According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average indoor radon level in Iowa is more than six times the national average.
  • Approximately 71.6% of homes in Iowa have radon levels above the EPA’s recommended action level of 4 pCi/L.
  • Five counties in Iowa have an average indoor radon level of 10 pCi/L or higher.

Radon Testing and Mitigation in Iowa

Given the high radon levels in Iowa, it is crucial for homeowners to test their homes for radon. If high levels are detected, radon mitigation systems can be installed to reduce the radon levels.

  • Radon testing kits are available for purchase online or at home improvement stores.
  • Professional radon testing services are also available in Iowa.
  • If a home tests high for radon, a radon mitigation system can be installed to reduce the radon levels. These systems can reduce radon levels by up to 99%.

Radon and Health Risks in Iowa

Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can lead to lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking.

  • It is estimated that radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States.
  • In Iowa, it is estimated that 400 lung cancer deaths per year are due to radon exposure.

Conclusion

Given the high radon levels in Iowa, it is crucial for homeowners to test their homes for radon and take necessary action if high levels are detected. This can help protect the health of Iowa residents and reduce the risk of lung cancer due to radon exposure.

Additional Resources About Radon Levels In Iowa

Here are some resources for reading about radon levels in Iowa: