Hydrogeochemical evaluation and human health risk assessment of uranium and radon in the coastal aquifers of southern Tamil Nadu
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Groundwater contamination by geogenic radionuclides, such as uranium and radon, poses significant public health risks, particularly in hard-rock and coastal aquifers of southern India, where lithological controls favour their mobilisation. This study assesses the spatial distribution and age-dependent radiological health risks of uranium and radon in groundwater from Kadaladi Taluk, Southern Tamil Nadu. Forty-four samples were analysed for uranium using an LED fluorimeter and radon using a RAD7 radon detector. Uranium concentrations ranged from 0.01 to 35.58 µg/L (mean 4.70 µg/L), with exceedances at selected locations and elevated hazard quotient (HQ) values in children, indicating potential non-carcinogenic risks. Lifetime Average Daily Dose (LADD) and excess cancer risk estimates for U-238 and U-234 revealed localised chronic exposure. Radon concentrations varied from 69 to 640 Bq/L (mean 246 Bq/L), with 29.55 % of samples yielding annual effective doses above three mSv y⁻¹ . Infants were the most exposed group due to higher water intake per unit body mass. Statistical residual analysis showed that uranium variability was site-specific, whereas radon exhibited broader regional geological control. The co-occurrence of uranium and radon hotspots highlights the need for integrated hydrogeochemical and radiological management. Mitigation strategies, such as point-of-use treatment, wellhead aeration, improved ventilation, and continuous monitoring, are recommended to reduce exposure risks in high-risk zones.
Source: Cleaner Water
Institution: Manonmaniam Sundaranar University
Language: English
Subfield: Radiological and Ultrasound Technology
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,230
OpenAlex ID: W4417437431