Uranium Detected in Breastmilk Across Bihar, Raises Infant Health Concerns

A recent study has unearthed uranium presence in breastmilk samples from lactating mothers across multiple districts in Bihar, raising health concerns for infants. Researchers analysed 40 samples, detecting uranium in all of them, with Khagaria showing the highest average contamination and Katihar recording the highest individual levels.

The findings suggest that approximately 70% of infants could be at risk of non-carcinogenic health issues, potentially affecting kidney development, neurological functions, and overall cognitive outcomes.

Despite these findings, health experts emphasise that the detected uranium levels remain below global safety limits and are not expected to cause significant health impacts. They strongly advise mothers to continue breastfeeding, explaining that most uranium absorbed by mothers is excreted through urine, preventing heavy accumulation in breastmilk.

Co-author Dr. Ashok Sharma highlighted that there are currently no specific permissible limits for uranium in breastmilk, though the WHO guideline for drinking water is 30 microgram per litre. This study serves as an early warning, prompting calls for expanded environmental pollutant testing and consistent monitoring of groundwater and breastmilk to safeguard maternal and infant health.