An Invisible Threat: Protect Your Home from Radon
posted by Darcie Follon on Thursday, January 22, 2026
January is Radon Action Month. At Clay County Public Health, we’re raising awareness about radon—a serious health risk you can’t see, smell, or taste. The only way to know if radon is in your home is to test.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from soil and rock. It can build up inside homes, especially in basements and lower levels where people spend time.
How Common Is Radon?
Radon is common nationwide, but Iowa has some of the highest levels in the country. Five out of seven Iowa homes have elevated radon levels. In Clay County, the average radon level is about 9.7 pCi/L, well above the EPA’s action level of 4 pCi/L.
Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer and the leading cause among non-smokers. It causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the U.S. Radon is a proven carcinogen that damages lung tissue over time.
Radon and Smoking
Radon exposure is especially dangerous for smokers. Smokers exposed to radon have a much higher risk of lung cancer, making testing critical for all households.
Who Should Test?
Everyone. All homes should be tested, regardless of age or location. Testing is especially important when buying or selling a home or using a basement as living space.
Testing and Results
Radon testing is easy and affordable. Short-term and long-term test options are available. If results are 4 pCi/L or higher, mitigation is recommended. Levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L should also be taken seriously.
Mitigation Works
Radon mitigation systems can reduce radon levels by up to 99%. Most systems cost between $1,200 and $2,500 and should always be followed by retesting.
Local Resources
Clay County Environmental Health offers radon test kits and information. Additional help is available through the Iowa Radon Hotline (1-800-383-5992) and the Iowa Lung Association.
Our Message for Radon Action Month
Test every home—especially in Clay County, where radon levels are known to be high. Testing is simple, mitigation works, and awareness can save lives.
- cancer
- radon