In a startling development, the residents of Buldhana district in Maharashtra have been grappling with an unusual health crisis: sudden and severe hair loss. The phenomenon, which has affected 279 individuals across 18 villages, has been linked to high selenium levels in wheat distributed through local ration shops.
The cases, reported between December 2024 and January 2025, primarily affected college students and young girls, causing significant social challenges. Symptoms included headaches, fever, scalp itching, tingling, and in some cases, vomiting and loose motions.
Investigative Findings
Dr. Himmatrao Bawaskar, MD of Bawaskar Hospital and Research Centre in Raigad, led the investigation into the outbreak. His team discovered that the wheat imported from Punjab and Haryana contained selenium levels 600 times higher than locally produced wheat. Selenium, a mineral found in soil, water, and some foods, is essential for human metabolism in small quantities. However, excessive intake can lead to adverse health effects, including hair loss.
“Our analysis of wheat from the affected region revealed that it contained significantly higher selenium levels than the locally grown variety. This high selenium intake is believed to be the cause of the alopecia cases,” Dr. Bawaskar explained.
Impact on the Community
The condition, termed ‘acute onset alopecia totalis,’ progressed rapidly, with total baldness occurring within three to four days of symptom onset. The social stigma surrounding alopecia led some affected individuals to shave their scalps to avoid embarrassment. The outbreak has disrupted educational pursuits and arranged marriages, adding to the community’s distress.
Scientific Analysis
Blood, urine, and hair samples from the affected individuals showed a 35-fold, 60-fold, and 150-fold increase in selenium content, respectively. Additionally, zinc levels were significantly lower in the affected individuals, pointing to a potential imbalance caused by the excess selenium.
Further examination of the wheat indicated that the high selenium content was inherent in the grain itself and not due to external contamination. Wheat from Punjab and Haryana is known to have high selenium bioavailability.
Government Response
In response to the crisis, authorities have halted the distribution of selenium-rich wheat and advised residents to stop its consumption. Some affected individuals have reported partial hair regrowth within five to six weeks after discontinuing the contaminated wheat.
Dr. Bawaskar emphasized the need for stronger regulation of food supplies, particularly in areas dependent on government-provided rations. “The outbreak highlights the importance of ensuring the quality and safety of food supplies to prevent such health crises in the future,” he stated.
As investigations continue, the residents of Buldhana district hope for a swift resolution to the crisis. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance required in our diet and the potential consequences of its disruption.
–Raja Aditya
