The CDC, American Lung Assn. and the American Medical Assn. agree with estimates that radon causes thousands of preventable lung cancer deaths every year. This is especially true among smokers, since the risk to smokers is greater than to non-smokers.
The City of Dubuque Health Services Department is offering the short-term radon test kits for $5.00. The Health Services Department is located at 1300 Main Street (City Hall Annex) and is open Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Health Services Department can be reached at 589-4181.
Radon can be a problem in all types of homes, including old homes, new homes, drafty homes, insulated homes, homes with basements and homes without basements. Local geology, construction materials, and how the home was built are among the factors that can affect radon levels in homes. In Dubuque County, 41% of the homes tested are above the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L. Radon gas seeps into a house 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. Test kits are simple to use and inexpensive.
More information Radon can be found at www.cityofdubuque.org or from the Radon Hotline at 800-383-5993 or www.RadonInIowa.com.