There has been a lot of recent hype about granite countertops and radon, radiation, etc.
what most people don't know is that this is not the first time an article has shown up that has not been backed up with solid science but may actually be funded by a SYNTHETIC MANUFACTURER OF COUNTERTOPS

Here is the link to the New York Times article that started a lot of needless panic, ( note how the title is designed to create fear in the reader) : 
WHATS LURKING IN YOUR GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

 Because of the irresponsible methods in that artice, many people are now convinced that all granite is exteremely radioactive, when this is not very common and to be dealt with on a case by case basis. Most of the time you will find background levels of radon are higher. The real issue is that everyone should at least test their homes for radon gas because it is much more likely to be infiltrating into the home at a significant level from the earth under the home than emitting from a granite countertop.

Whats the real deal?
Try this instead, its the EPA'S ( ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY) take on it:
What about Radon in Granite Countertops?

And here is a reuters article on the 2008 study from the University of Akron :

New Study Confirms Commonly Used Granite is Safe for Countertops

HERE IS A LINK TO THE STUDY IN PDF FORM:
University of Akron Radon Testing of Various Countertop Materials

Final Report by
L. L. Chyi
Department of Geology and Environmental Science
The University of Akron
Akron, OH 44325-4101
May, 2008

 I hope this helps at least one person and they tell their friends, etc, etc.
 
 Untill next time
 Joseph Tribuzio - this home inspector knows homes