Granite Countertops: All the Rage but May Not Be the Healthiest Option

New high-end homes, as well as many remodeled kitchens over the past few years have featured granite countertops. Along with stainless steel appliances, granite has been a “must have” item. While I personally feel it has been overused and will go out of style, leaving a kitchen dated, until now it has not lost much of its luster. That may all change with news reports that granite countertops may contain higher than acceptable levels of uranium, which emit radon gas as it decays.

Now, don’t panic and flee the scene of what may potentially be radioactive material. Not all granite will be unsafe, and in fact, much of what is available is perfectly fine. But with the increase in consumption, there has been an increase in importation of granite, from more exotic locales. Most retailers carry less than 100 kinds of granite, but there are more than 10 times that available on the market. And while the majority won’t emit anything worse than you find in a normal environmental setting, and certainly less than if you were to have an x-ray, there are some types that are unsafe.

Radon is a leading cause of lung cancer and can be particularly hazardous to children, pregnant women and their unborn child, or people who have lung conditions. The E.P.A. recommends taking action if radon gas levels in the home exceed 4 picocuries per liter of air (a measure of radioactive emission); about the same risk for cancer as smoking a half a pack of cigarettes per day.

As reported in The New York Times, David J. Brenner, director of the Center for Radiological Research at Columbia University in New York, said the cancer risk from granite countertops, even those emitting radiation above background levels, is “on the order of one in a million.” Being struck by lightning is more likely. Nonetheless, Dr. Brenner said, “It makes sense. If you can choose another counter that doesn’t elevate your risk, however slightly, why wouldn’t you?”

Again, there is no reason to panic. If you are concerned about your countertops, you can contact the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists, and find a qualified specialist to test your home for radon. The Environmental Protection Agency also has a website devoted to radon, with links to certified technicians and do-it-yourself kits.