STRONTIUM

Naturally in rock and soil; dissolves into groundwater and drinking water; used in fireworks, flares, ceramics, and metal alloys [1][2].

Eating food and drinking water, breathing dust or soil, some toothpastes and supplements, and certain jobs (pyrotechnics, ceramics, metal refining) [1].

At high intake, stable strontium can replace calcium in bone, leading to bone and tooth changes; children are most sensitive. Radioactive Sr‑90 can increase the risk of bone cancer and leukemia [1][2].

Bottle‑fed infants where water strontium is high, children, pregnant people, those with low calcium/vitamin D or kidney disease, and exposed workers [1][2].

Check your water (especially private wells). If elevated, consider certified treatment such as reverse osmosis or ion‑exchange softening, and use alternative water for infant formula. Avoid unnecessary strontium supplements. Follow workplace protections and reduce indoor dust [2][1].