A new health mystery is unfolding in Shegaon taluka of Maharashtra’s Buldhana district, where at least 29 people across four villages have reported cases of nail loss. This follows an earlier incident where more than 200 residents experienced unexplained hair loss, believed to be caused by toxic elements in local wheat.
The latest issue involves villagers experiencing cracked nails, which eventually fall off. Health authorities have confirmed the reports and are investigating the cause. Buldhana Health Officer Dr. Anil Bankar stated that the affected individuals are receiving primary care and will be referred to Shegaon hospital for further examination.
Village head Ram Tharkar mentioned that the nail issues appeared suddenly, with nails beginning to crack within two days before falling off completely. Health officials, including District Officer and Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav, have been informed, and investigations are underway in the affected areas.
Dr. Prashant Tangde, the District Psychiatric Officer, shared that over 30 people have reported damaged nails, and their blood samples are being tested. While the exact cause remains unclear, authorities are considering elevated levels of selenium, a mineral found in soil, water, and some foods, as a possible factor. Interestingly, many of those affected by the nail issues are the same individuals who experienced hair loss earlier.
This new health concern comes months after 279 people in Buldhana’s 18 villages reported acute onset alopecia totalis (sudden hair loss) between December 2024 and January 2025.
