A new scientific study has uncovered concerning levels of uranium in the breast milk of lactating mothers across several districts of Bihar, raising red flags about potential health risks for infants.
Researchers analysed samples from 40 randomly selected lactating women from different regions of the state. Shockingly, uranium was detected in all breast milk samples, with the highest contamination levels reported from Katihar and the highest district-wide average found in Khagaria.
Scientists from multiple institutions involved in the study warn that uranium exposure through breast milk may lead to non-carcinogenic health risks in infants.
Speaking to ANI, Dr. Ashok Sharma of AIIMS Delhi, a co-author of the study, said, “The analysis showed uranium in all breast milk samples. While 70% of infants showed potential non-carcinogenic risk, the overall levels remained below permissible limits and are expected to have minimal actual health impact on both mothers and infants.”
He further explained, “The highest average contamination was in Khagaria, and the highest individual reading was recorded in Katihar. Uranium exposure may pose risks such as impaired neurological development and reduced IQ, but breastfeeding should not be discontinued. It remains the most beneficial source of infant nutrition unless clinically advised otherwise.”
According to the study, 70% of infants had a Hazard Quotient (HQ) greater than 1, indicating possible non-carcinogenic effects from uranium exposure, which can potentially impact:
-
Kidney development
-
Neurological growth
-
Cognitive outcomes, including IQ levels and risks of neurodevelopmental delays if exposure continues long-term
Despite these indicators, researchers emphasise that the actual health impact is expected to be low because most uranium absorbed by mothers is excreted through urine rather than concentrated in breast milk.
