What's behind the alarming rise in birth defects in Brazil's illegal gold mining capital?
Briefly

The rise in cases of physical and neurological symptoms among children in Munduruku communities is leading doctors to suspect that illegal gold mining might be the cause. The comparison to Minamata, a site of severe mercury poisoning in Japan, highlights the severity of the situation.
According to a 2020 study, more than 60% of Munduruku have mercury levels exceeding safe norms, raising alarm over the long-term impact of mercury exposure on their health.
Field nurse Cleidiane Carvalho observed that the child showed characteristics common in children from Minamata, emphasizing concern over the health effects of mercury contamination in Munduruku.
Paulo Basta noted a significant increase in the occurrence of children born with physical abnormalities and neurological syndromes, directly linking these issues to prenatal mercury exposure.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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