Analysis of samples from 40 mothers across six Bihar districts shows low-level uranium, but scientists reassure that breastfeeding remains safe.
Uranium Traces Found in Bihar Breast Milk
A recent study analyzed breast milk samples from 40 lactating women in six districts of Bihar: Bhojpur, Samastipur, Begusarai, Khagaria, Katihar, and Nalanda.
The results showed uranium (U‑238) in all samples, with concentrations up to 5.25 µg/L. Researchers noted that about 70% of infants might face very low-level, non-carcinogenic exposure.
Experts Reassure Parents
Leading nuclear scientist Dr. Dinesh K Aswal, former director at BARC, clarified that the detected levels are well below WHO safety limits for uranium in water.
- Most uranium ingested by mothers is excreted in urine, with only a small fraction entering breast milk.
- Breastfeeding remains safe and beneficial, outweighing any potential risk from trace uranium.
- Parents are urged not to panic and to continue regular feeding practices.
Why the Traces Appear
- Uranium is naturally present in soil and groundwater, particularly in some regions of Bihar.
- WHO’s provisional safe limit for uranium in drinking water is 30 µg/L, much higher than levels detected in the breast milk samples.
- Experts emphasize that trace exposure at these levels is unlikely to cause health harm to infants.
Next Steps and Monitoring
- Researchers recommend wider biomonitoring in Bihar and other states to track uranium exposure.
- Health agencies may increase screening of water sources for contaminants like uranium, fluoride, and arsenic.
- Public health messaging will continue to stress the safety and importance of breastfeeding.
