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Exploring uranium toxicity: How does it affect our kidneys and other organs?
Globally, the presence of uranium in the environment has become an important public health issue. The sources of uranium can be divided into two categories: natural and man-made, including not only uranium found in nature, but also from man-made activities such as mining, phosphates in agriculture, weapons manufacturing, and nuclear power generation. Although uranium is generally less radioactive in the natural environment, as a toxic metal it can disrupt the normal function of the kidneys, brain, liver, heart and many other organs. Uranium poses a potential threat to public health when present in high concentrations in groundwater and food.
"The radioactivity and chemical toxicity of uranium in the environment have an impact on health that cannot be underestimated."
Naturally occurring uranium
Uranium is a naturally occurring element found in all rocks, soil and water. It is the highest-numbered element discovered and is present in significant quantities on Earth. According to the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation, normal concentrations of uranium in soil range from 300 μg/kg to 11.7 mg/kg. Uranium is more abundant than several metals, such as lead, mercury, and silver, and is similarly abundant as some common elements, such as tin and arsenic.
Sources of uranium
Mining and Sawstone
Mining is one of the major sources of uranium contamination in the environment. The uranium sawstone process produces radioactive waste, including tailings of uranium, radium and polonium, and results in unavoidable radioactive contamination of solid, liquid and gaseous waste. Approximately 70% of global uranium resources are located on the traditional lands of indigenous peoples, and as a result, the environmental risks associated with uranium mining have generated environmental conflicts and opposition in local communities.
Military activities
Military activities are also a major source of uranium, especially uranium contamination from nuclear and weapons testing sites. Uranium depleted (DU) is a by-product used in armor protection and armor-piercing projectiles. Under this system, uranium pollution affects many countries and regions.
Nuclear energy and waste
The nuclear energy industry is also a source of uranium in the environment. The radioactive waste produced by domestic nuclear power plants or weapons facilities has caused long-term ecological impacts. It is estimated that there are more than 250,000 metric tons of high-level radioactive waste stored globally, which is a very serious problem for human health and the environment.
"Links between uranium and health raise public health concerns."
Health effects
Soluble uranium salts are somewhat toxic, although less toxic than other heavy metals such as lead or mercury. The kidney is the organ most affected by uranium. Long-term exposure can lead to the accumulation of uranium in the kidney, thus affecting its normal function. According to the guidance of the World Health Organization, the allowable daily intake of soluble uranium salts for the general public is 0.5 μg per kilogram of body weight.
Public health issues
Tailings from uranium mining are radioactive and may contain other harmful elements such as polonium. Dust and water pollution from these tailings can further exacerbate health problems for local communities. Multiple studies have pointed out that environmental problems related to uranium mining will produce ongoing and potential health risks to local residents.
Cancer risk
As early as 1950, the U.S. Public Health Service initiated a comprehensive study of uranium miners and published the first statistical correlation between uranium and cancer in 1962. The research led to regulations on safety in uranium mining. Health risks associated with uranium have raised concerns about birth defects, according to an epidemiological review published in 2005.
"The long-term health effects of uranium remain a source of debate in today's scientific research."
Animal Experimental Research
Research has found that uranium can cause reproductive defects and health problems in animals such as mice and frogs, demonstrating the biological toxicity of uranium. This raises concerns about the potential impact on environmental ecosystems, especially when uranium is present in water sources and soil.
Thinking about the future
As research on the impact of uranium continues to deepen, the assessment and management of uranium in industry and academia has become particularly important. Will the toxicity of uranium affect the health of more people as mining activities increase?
