A recent study conducted across several districts in Bihar has revealed the presence of uranium in the breast milk of 40 lactating mothers, raising significant concerns about potential long-term exposure for infants. However, experts indicate that the levels detected do not pose an immediate health risk.
The research was carried out by the Mahavir Cancer Sansthan and Research Centre in collaboration with various partner organizations, marking the first exploration of uranium contamination in breast milk. Samples were collected and analyzed from 40 randomly selected lactating women, aged 17 to 35, residing in six districts of eastern Bihar, specifically Bhojpur, Samastipur, Begusarai, Khagaria, Katihar, and Nalanda. The sampling occurred between October 2021 and July 2024.
Findings indicated that all tested lactating mothers exhibited uranium contamination in their breast milk, with concentrations ranging from 0.13 µg/L to 5.29 µg/L; the highest levels were observed in the Katihar district. The pervasive presence of uranium raises alarms about groundwater contamination, particularly in areas where groundwater serves as the primary source of drinking water. Bihar is known to house several aquifers with naturally high uranium concentrations.
Researchers warned that up to 70% of the infant population could experience non-carcinogenic health implications due to uranium exposure, concluding that “the uranium exposure to infants through their mothers’ breast milk is at a hazardous level.” They emphasized that infants are particularly vulnerable, as their bodies eliminate uranium more slowly than adults, potentially leading to accumulation in developing kidneys and affecting neurological development with prolonged exposure.
Despite these warnings, some experts maintain that the uranium levels detected are considerably below international safety thresholds. Dr. Dinesh K. Aswal, Director at the National Physical Laboratory, remarked to NDTV that the uranium concentrations found in the study are six times lower than the World Health Organization’s safe limit for uranium in drinking water. He stated, “There is absolutely no reason for alarm. Mothers can and should continue to breastfeed their children without hesitation.”
Nevertheless, the researchers call for enhanced monitoring of uranium levels in the affected regions and advocate for stronger groundwater surveillance alongside improved tracking of infant health. They reiterate that while the presence of uranium in breast milk is concerning, breastfeeding remains safe and should continue based on the currently reported levels.
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