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9 Investigates: Radon threat on the rise

None — Radon poisoning is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States with more than 20,000 new cases each year, and it could be poisoning the air in your home.

Eyewitness News anchor Scott Wickersham uncovered new information, not yet released by the EPA, which reveals a sharp increase of positive radon tests in four local counties, elevating them to the EPA's "High Risk" category.  One of those counties, Watauga, has reported 44% of tests coming in over the safe limit.

Radon is emitted from rock in the ground and can seep through the foundation of your home and poison the air you breathe; but, as our 9 Investigation discovered, radon can also be found in building materials which completely changes the outlook for radon cases in our area.  With an increased risk of radon poisoning in condos, high-rise apartments, homes and office buildings the threat is raising safety questions for new construction in Charlotte.  Thursday starting at 5pm on Channel 9 Eyewitness News.

**Radon is invisible and odorless.  High levels of exposure can be extremely dangerous.**

Am I at risk: How do I test for radon where I live?  MORE INFORMATION