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MINING-INDUSTRY
MERCURY-EXPOSURE

MERCURY IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND BIOLOGICAL SAMPLES FROM A GOLD MINING AREA IN THE AMAZON REGION OF BRAZIL

The extent of mercury contamination in the Gurupi gold field in Brazil was investigated by analyzing water, fish, and mammalian specimens for organic and inorganic mercury content. Mercury concentrations were highest in areas which drained from the mining area, including a lake and the river Gurupi. Mercury concentration in blood, urine and hair samples from garimpeiros (gold field workers), residents in Cachoeiro village, and river dwellers were also measured. The authors conclude that widespread contamination of the environment has occurred with transfer of mercury to food fish and animals, and the inhabitants of the area.

Science of the Total Environment, 168(1):63-69, 1995. (15 references)

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