Water Contamination and Pollution Due to Radioactive Materials, Natural and Anthropogenic Sources, and Their Health Impacts: A Review

Aluvihara S, Pestano-Gupta F, Omar MH, Alam SF, Ghani AA, Hilonga A and Abdulaali HH

Published on: 2025-10-24

Abstract

Water is an indispensable resource, critical for sustaining life and ecological balance. However, its quality is increasingly threatened by various pollutants, among the most concerning of which are radioactive materials. Radioactive contamination of water sources, whether surface water or groundwater, poses significant environmental and public health risks. This review article comprehensively explores the multifaceted issue of water contamination by radionuclides, delving into the fundamental principles of radioactivity, the diverse natural and anthropogenic sources contributing to this pollution, the mechanisms of radionuclide transport in aquatic environments, and the profound health impacts on humans and ecosystems. Natural sources, primarily geological in origin, include uranium, thorium, and their decay products like radon, which naturally leach into water from rocks and soil. Anthropogenic activities, ranging from nuclear power generation, weapons production and testing, medical applications, industrial processes, and mining, are significant contributors, often releasing artificial radionuclides or enhancing the mobilization of naturally occurring ones. The unique properties of radionuclides, such as their long half-lives and potential for bioaccumulation, amplify their threat. Exposure to contaminated water, through ingestion, dermal contact, or inhalation of aerosols, can lead to a spectrum of adverse health effects, including various cancers, genetic mutations, birth defects, and damage to organ systems. This review also discusses global regulatory frameworks, monitoring techniques, and emerging remediation strategies aimed at mitigating the risks associated with radioactive water contamination, emphasizing the urgent need for integrated approaches to safeguard water resources for present and future generations.