222Rn,226Ra and 238U concentration in water samples for some marshes in Dhi-Qar governorate, Iraq

A study measuring radon (222Rn), radium (226Ra), and uranium (238U) concentrations in marsh waters of Dhi-Qar governorate, Iraq, found that while 222Rn and 226Ra levels were within global safety limits set by the WHO, 238U concentrations exceeded EPA recommendations. The research used Solid State Nuclear Track Detectors (SSNTDs) with CR-39 detectors to assess average internal effective dose risk (AED) and lifetime cancer risk from ingestion of these radioactive elements. Results indicated that consuming contaminated marsh water could significantly increase internal radiation exposure, with lifetime cancer risks surpassing safe drinking water thresholds. This highlights potential health hazards linked to uranium contamination in the region's marshes.

Marzaali, A. A., Al-Shareefi, M. A., & Abojassim, A. A. (2021). 222Rn,226Ra and 238U concentration in water samples for some marshes in Dhi-Qar governorate, Iraq. Water Supply, 22(1), 1035–1046. https://doi.org/10.2166/ws.2021.216