Participatory science to action: Radon literacy assessment and testing in an African American community

Low radon testing rates in communities of color are health concerns with possible elevated lung cancer risks. Our objective was to use a participatory science approach to assess environmental health literacy specific to radon, i.e., radon literacy, and testing practices in a primarily African American community in Atlanta, Georgia. A leadership team of two academic researchers and a community organization leader engaged an intergenerational group of residents that included one adult team lead, three community elders, and three youth as community scientists, who contributed to research design, survey administration, radon testing, and results dissemination. From March to October 2022, 167 homeowners (87 % African American) participated in radon testing and at-home surveys. A total of 154 valid tests were obtained with a mean radon level of 126 Bq/m³ and a standard deviation of 100 Bq/m³. Radon levels exceeded the remediation threshold of 148 Bq/m³ in 43 homes (27.9 %). Primary recruitment methods were door-to-door canvassing (45 %) and personal referrals (29 %). While 76.9 % of participants were aware of what radon is, only 11.3 % had previously tested their homes. Over 40 % lacked knowledge about radon, and 88.1 % were unaware of remediation thresholds. Radon literacy was positively associated with higher educational attainment and connections with families and friends who had previously tested their homes for radon. It also tended to be higher among unmarried participants and in households without children or seniors. This study highlights the need for greater awareness and testing in African American communities. This project suggests that collaborative, community-led strategies could help raise testing rates and ultimately improve public health.