Uranium found in breastmilk of Bihar mothers, infants potentially at risk: Study - Video

Researchers from multiple institutions have found that uranium exposure through breastmilk may pose significant non-carcinogenic health risks to infants.

Speaking with ANI, Dr Ashok Sharma of AIIMS Delhi, who is a co-author of the study, said, “The study analysed breast milk from 40 lactating mothers and found uranium (U-238) in all samples. Although 70% of infants showed potential non-carcinogenic health risk, the overall uranium levels were below permissible limits and are expected to have minimal actual health impact on both mothers and infants. The highest average contamination occurred in Khagaria district, and the highest individual value occurred in Katihar district. While uranium exposure may pose risks such as impaired neurological development and reduced IQ, breastfeeding should not be discontinued and remains the most beneficial source of infant nutrition unless clinically indicated.”