Uranium Found in Mothers’ Milk in Bihar: Nature Study Warns of Toxic Exposure in 6 Districts

Patna: Mother's milk is considered the safest and most sacred nutrition for a newborn. Now this milk has become poison in Bihar. A shocking study published in the prestigious science journal 'Nature' has revealed that uranium (U238) has been found in the milk of every lactating woman in six districts of the state. Dr. Arun Kumar and Prof. of Mahavir Cancer Institute, Patna. This research was conducted under the leadership of Ashok Ghosh along with Dr. Ashok Sharma of Delhi AIIMS from October 2021 to July 2024. 

Which area is most affected?

Uranium was found in the milk samples of 40 women aged 17-35 years from Bhojpur, Samastipur, Begusarai, Khagaria, Katihar, and Nalanda. Highest in Khagaria, lowest in Nalanda. A sample from Katihar is the most dangerous. Has the poison of groundwater now reached the first breath of children?

How serious is the threat of uranium?

Studies say 70% of infants are exposed to levels of uranium that could pose serious non-cancer health risks. Children's organs are still developing. They absorb heavy metals rapidly, and due to their low weight, even small amounts become many times more dangerous. No country or organization sets a 'safe limit' of uranium in mother's milk, meaning no amount is safe. Dr. Ashok Sharma said that the source is not known yet; the Geological Survey of India is also searching. But it has entered the food chain. Cancer, neurological diseases, and the development of children are being affected.

What is the advice of doctors?

Scientists made it clear that despite the danger, mother's milk should not be stopped. This is indispensable for immunity and development, and there is no alternative. Take decisions only on the advice of doctors. But the question is, where did the uranium in the water come from? Is this the result of groundwater pollution that has been haunting Bihar for years?

Has the soil of Bihar become poison?

These six districts are in the Ganga plains, where the problem of heavy metals in groundwater is a chronic problem. In the study, Khagaria is the most affected, and a sample from Katihar is at a record level. Less in Nalanda, but not zero. Is this the new uranium crisis after arsenic? The government has not yet given any official statement, but the health department is on alert.

Mother's milk has now become poison in Bihar—this is not just a study; it is the cry of millions of newborns. Will the government take immediate action on cleaning groundwater? Or will this crisis increase further?