Relationship between distance to boron mine and exposure in cattle

Abstract

Boron, a valuable underground mineral whose usage area is increasing day by day, has been identified as an essential trace element in plant development. However, research on its usage for humans and animals is still ongoing. Recommended doses are physiologically involved in many systems, but excess boron can be risky for living organisms and the environment. Boron moves in an endless cycle between air, water, soil, and food, and can accumulate. Concentration can rise too much, especially in areas with boron mines. This situation causes contamination in the environment and directly affects human, animal and plant health. There is a paucity of research on the residue status of boron mineral, which is extensively mined and frequently used in certain regions, notably Turkey. In our study, we sought to ascertain the effects of proximity to boron mines on boron concentration in blood, urine, water, and feed in animals. In the study, 60 (20*3) cattle living in areas 0-5, 5-15 and 15-30 km away from the boron mine site were used. Blood and urine samples were taken from cattle. Boron concentrations were determined by sampling the feed and water they consumed. The results of the analyses demonstrated that boron levels in all samples were influenced by the distance to the mine. A statistically significant decrease was observed, particularly in drinking water and blood boron levels. This situation is a major risk factor, especially for living organisms in proximity to boron and other mines. It is also recommended to establish more comprehensive studies investigating the effects of boron concentration on living organisms.