Uranium traces found in breast milk raise health concerns in Bihar, study triggers debate

Uranium traces: A worrying revelation has emerged from a recent scientific study, suggesting the presence of uranium traces in the breast milk of lactating mothers in parts of Bihar. The finding has triggered concerns over potential long-term health hazards for newborns, despite researchers stating that the detected levels may not pose an immediate cancer threat.

Breastfeeding is considered the most crucial phase of a newborn’s development, providing immunity-boosting nutrients essential for early growth. However, environmental contaminants consumed by the mother can pass into breast milk — a factor that has now come under sharp focus.

According to a study published in the November 2025 edition of the prestigious journal Nature, a joint research team from Bihar and AIIMS New Delhi collected breast-milk samples from 40 lactating women and tested them for uranium concentration. The samples were found to contain uranium in the range of 0–6 mcg/l, exceeding the toxicity threshold of 5.6 mcg/l in a few cases.

While the study states that these levels are not immediately carcinogenic for newborns, it warns of potential long-term risks such as kidney dysfunction, bone disorders, developmental delays, reduced IQ, and increased susceptibility to conditions like leukemia and bone cancer later in life.

Experts believe the contamination is likely linked to environmental exposure. Bihar’s fertile soil contains naturally occurring minerals, but widespread use of chemical fertilisers and improper industrial waste disposal have contributed to uranium seepage into groundwater sources.

When this contaminated water is used for drinking, cooking, or irrigating crops, the heavy metal enters the food chain — eventually reaching the human body and, in this case, the breast milk of nursing mothers.

The study also emphasises that uranium tends to accumulate in the bones and kidneys by binding with carbonate and phosphate groups. During pregnancy, the metal can cross the placenta, potentially affecting fetal development.

However, soon after publication, several scientists raised concerns over the study’s small sample size, ambiguity in measurement standards, and lack of comparative data on groundwater, bone, and kidney uranium levels. Many experts assert that the findings, while significant, are not sufficient to spark panic.

Authorities and health specialists recommend regular testing of drinking water for heavy metals, especially in mineral-rich regions. India has defined permissible uranium limits for drinking water, and district-level health departments routinely monitor these levels.

Health experts advise pregnant and breastfeeding women to ensure access to clean drinking water and a nutritious diet, saying these remain essential safeguards for both mother and child.

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