Here’s what every North Carolina homeowner should know about radon.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that
results from uranium decay in soil and rock. Western
North Carolina's diverse geological composition—including granitic rocks, gneiss, and metamorphic formations in the Blue Ridge Mountains—creates conditions where radon exposure can be a significant health concern.

Key Facts About Radon in North Carolina:

• Radon is the #2 cause of lung cancer after smoking

• North Carolina sees approximately 450 radon-related deaths annually

• 77 of the 100 counties in North Carolina have radon indoor air levels above the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L

• Both Cashiers (Jackson County) and Highlands (Macon County) are located in EPA Zone 2 areas with moderate radon risk

• User-submitted data from Highlands shows an average radon level of 4.00 pCi/L—at the EPA action threshold

• Elevated levels of radon in groundwater within Jackson County are associated with the presence of granitic and gneiss bedrock

Health Risks:

• Lung cancer risk increases with exposure duration

• Non-smokers face a 4-7 times higher lung cancer risk at elevated levels

• Smokers have an exponentially higher risk when exposed to radon

• No symptoms until serious health problems develop

Testing Recommendations:

• EPA recommends testing every 2 years, minimum

• Test before buying or selling a home

• Test after major renovations or structural changes

• Test both air and well water—western NC's granitic bedrock
  can elevate radon levels in groundwater