EXPLAINER: Why kidney problems, birth defects have been linked to galamsey activities

The recent notice by the Ghana Water Limited regarding the challenges in supplying quality raw water in the Central Region - due to the pollution of the Pra River from galamsey activities, has generated public discourse on the looming dangers facing the country if no action is taken to curb illegal mining.

Doctors have linked galamsey to several health issues due to its impact on the environment.

Individuals exposed to galamsey-related pollutants, as well as those living near affected areas, are at risk of various diseases and health problems.

According to a study by the Health Sciences Investigation Journal, galamsey in recent times have been linked to respiratory diseases, neurological disorders, cardiovascular issues, birth defects, among other health problems.

The pollutants used by illegal miners in galamsey activities, such as mercury, cyanide, lead, arsenic, iron, carbon monoxide, and other chemicals, each play a significant role in the adverse effects on individuals’ health.

Mercury is associated with brain damage, kidney failure, and harm to other vital body organs.

It can also lead to stillbirths in pregnant women and neurological disorders such as tremors, impaired cognition, and muscle weakness, which have been recorded in the country in recently.

The use of these harmful chemicals by illegal miners can also lead to the death of crops that rely on irrigation from these polluted rivers.

Lead, in particular, is associated with anemia, can damage the central nervous system, cognitive impairments, and an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease in adults.

In 2022, health experts linked the increase in kidney-related illnesses to galamsey, tracing the rise in cases to areas affected by these illegal mining activities.

In response to these issues, a #StopGalamseynow campaign is being championed on social media by Ghanaians.

MAG/AE

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