Distribution of natural radionuclides and assessment of excess lifetime cancer risk along coastal areas of Varkala in Kerala

High natural background radiation areas (HBRA) are given emphasis while studying the distribution and enrichment of natural radionuclides. Monazite, the rich source of radioactive uranium and thorium, becomes an important component in the sand from HBRAs. Further, the possible impact of natural radiation on the biota (including the human) has been a matter of serious concern from societal and biological stand-points. Potential carcinogenic effects that are considered by estimating the probability of cancer incidence in a population of individual for a specific lifetime from projected intakes and chemical-specific dose-response data are expressed in terms of excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR). In view of this, an attempt has been made to understand radionuclides enrichment in Varkala coast, a known HBRA in Kerala. Further, excess lifetime cancer risk parameters were evaluated and possible conclusions are drawn