Elevated radon levels pose an under-appreciated health risk for many homeowners in DeKalb County, Illinois. Previous surveys indicate that most county residents have not tested for radon even though U.S. EPA has designated the county as Zone 1, the highest priority for testing and mitigation. The Community Radon Project, a joint effort of Northern Illinois University School of Nursing and Kishwaukee Community Hospital, was initiated to increase public awareness of radon and promote testing and follow-up where levels exceed the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L. To identify factors associated with planning to test for radon and initiate mitigation procedures, project staff surveyed 473 heads of households throughout DeKalb County. The findings are based on an initial and follow-up survey after conducting free radon testing. Logistic regression analyses indicated that the adjusted odds of planning to test for radon was significantly higher among those whose radon test results were above EPA’s action level compared to the average odds across all test result categories (OR=5.57, 95% CI=2.77 - 11.19). In addition, perception of radon as a serious health hazard was significantly related to planning a follow-up test (OR=2.30, 95% CI=1.19 - 4.47). Receipt of radon test results above EPA’s action level was also a significant predictor of planning radon mitigation (OR=3.42, 95% CI=1.77 - 6.60). These and other findings are discussed in light of the need to educate homeowners better about the health risks of excess radon exposure.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participants will be able to: 1. Describe the health risks associated with residential radon exposure. 2. Identify the U.S. EPA action level for radon. 3. Interpret the U.S. EPA rating system for testing and controlling radon. 4. Identify five potential factors associated with intentions to test for radon and initiate mitigation procedures. 5. Discuss specific strategies for increasing community awareness of the health risks of radon.
Keywords: Air Quality, Community Outreach
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.