Uranium

Fecal uranium (U) provides an indication of recent oral exposure to the element, and to a much lesser extent U that has been excreted from the body in bile. The levels of U in feces has been used to estimate total daily intake of U. Most U passes through the intestine unabsorbed. Excretion of U from the body occurs via bile and urine.

All isotopes of U are radioactive; U-238 is the most abundant naturally occurring isotope and lowest energy emitter. It is important to note that the measured represents naturally occurring U-238, and does NOT indicate or imply exposure to highly enriched U-235 which is used in nuclear power and weaponry. U is a nonessential element that is very abundant in rock, particularly granite. Uranium is present at widely variable levels in drinking water, root vegetables, and present in high phosphate fertilizers.

Some bottled waters may contain U, particularly those originating from mountain springs. Other sources of U include some ceramics, some colored glass, and some mine tailings. Hair elements analysis may indicate exposure to U over the past 2-4 months.

Fecal uranium (U) provides an indication of recent oral exposure to the element, and to a much lesser extent U that has been excreted from the body in bile. The levels of U in feces has been used to estimate total daily intake of U. Most U passes through the intestine unabsorbed. Excretion of U from the body occurs via bile and urine.