Uranium Detected in Breastmilk Across Bihar

A new scientific study has triggered concern after detecting uranium in breastmilk samples collected from 40 lactating mothers across Bihar. Although the quantities found were below harmful limits, the findings highlight growing worries about groundwater contamination and its long-term impact on public health.

Study conducted across six districts

The research, carried out between 2021 and 2024, collected samples from mothers aged 17 to 35 in six districts - Bhojpur, Samastipur, Begusarai, Khagaria, Katihar, and Nalanda. Every sample showed the presence of uranium, with Katihar recording the highest concentration at 5.25 µg/L. It was followed by Samastipur, Nalanda, Khagaria, Begusarai and Bhojpur.

Researchers noted that while uranium was detected in all participants, the levels remained below the permissible limit set for drinking water. Still, they warned that the presence of uranium in breastmilk cannot be dismissed, especially when contamination may be increasing over time.

No global benchmark for uranium in breastmilk

One of the study’s most important observations was the complete absence of international or national guidelines on what levels of uranium in breastmilk are considered safe. Current standards only specify limits for drinking water, leaving a gap in assessing risks to infants.

Groundwater seen as major source

The study pointed to groundwater as the likely source of contamination. Uranium levels in water samples from several districts were significantly higher, with some areas recording concentrations above 70 µg/L. The researchers suggested that contaminated water used for drinking, cooking, and irrigation could be allowing uranium to enter the food chain.

Other contributing factors highlighted in the study included industrial effluents, polluted river systems, excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, and long-term dependence on untreated groundwater for agriculture and household use.

Health experts urge caution

Health specialists have expressed concern over the findings, stating that uranium entering the food chain poses potential long-term health risks. Prolonged exposure may increase chances of cancer, neurological complications, and developmental problems in children.

Although the study noted that the current impact on infants is likely minimal, experts emphasised that continued exposure could become dangerous if contamination levels rise.

Why breastmilk shows lower accumulation

According to the research, uranium tends to accumulate more in bones and kidneys rather than breastmilk. It binds strongly to certain compounds in the body and is mostly expelled through urine. Its limited ability to mix with milk fats and proteins reduces the amount that may reach infants, offering some reassurance for now.

Call for wider testing and monitoring

The study, supported by key Indian research institutions, has renewed calls for large-scale testing of groundwater and food sources across Bihar. Experts believe regular monitoring and early detection are essential to prevent future health risks for mothers and children.

While the immediate threat remains low, the discovery of uranium in every breastmilk sample tested is being viewed as a warning sign, one that underscores the urgent need to address environmental contamination before it worsens.