The inhabitants of Barreiras (downstream from the proposed dam), and São Luis do Tapajós (three kilometers upstream), have been tested for mercury contamination regularly since the 1990s by concerned scientists and public health authorities. Those specialists have found that mercury has been on the increase in Tapajós Basin waters and fish, likely the result of upriver gold mining operations that use the waterways to separate precious gold from ore.
For that reason, medical authorities have recommended a decrease in fish consumption by locals, explains nursing technician Vaneide Amorim dos Santos, who works at the medical station in São Luiz, where signs are posted asking fishermen to eat less fish. Too much mercury can result in nervous system harm and fetal damage.
Vaneide admits, however, that it is an uphill battle trying to get locals to alter their fish-heavy diets.
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