Archive · 20 Jun 2025
Mercury Poisoning in Peruvian Amazon Threatens Health
Imagine tiny bits of gold being taken out of the river, but the way they do it makes the water dangerous.
A study found that most people in some Amazon communities have too much mercury in their bodies, much more than what is safe.
This mercury comes from illegal gold mining, where they use mercury to find gold.
This is bad because mercury can hurt your brain and make it hard for kids to learn.
The authorities are worried and want to do something to fix this, because it's making people sick.
Study reveals high mercury levels in Peruvian Amazon communities.
Nearly 80% of tested people have mercury levels exceeding safe limits.
Illegal gold mining is identified as a major source of mercury contamination.
Mercury poisoning can cause cognitive and developmental health issues.
Authorities express concern and call for action to address the crisis.
- Who
- Indigenous and riverine communities in Loreto region.
- What
- High levels of mercury contamination in the Loreto region of the Peruvian Amazon.
- When
- The study was conducted late last year, with results released in June.
- Where
- Loreto region of the Peruvian Amazon, specifically near the Nanay and Pintuyacu rivers.
- Why
- Illegal gold mining practices are contaminating the water, leading to mercury poisoning.
Concerned Citizens and Scientists
CINCIA scientists and local health officials
Source of Mercury
Concerned Citizens and Scientists
The communities' health is severely threatened due to illegal gold mining practices
CINCIA scientists and local health officials
The source of mercury is mainly related to the villagers' diet fish-based diet.
- Affected Region
- Loreto, Peruvian Amazon
- Contamination Source
- Illegal gold mining
- Population Affected
- Indigenous and riverine communities
- Mercury Levels Exceeding Safe Limit
- Nearly 80%
- Mercury Form Found
- Methylmercury