A Clinical coordinator at Chiraa government Hospital, Dr. Philip Ohemeng Anokye has raised alarm over the dangerous effects of mercury used in illegal small-scale mining, known locally as galamsey, warning that unborn babies are the most vulnerable victims of the toxic chemical.

His remark was prompted by illegal mining activities in Tano North, which have severely polluted local water sources, rendering them unsafe for drinking.

Speaking in an interview with Nana Poku Piesie on ‘Nsem Sisi’, Dr. Anokye said mercury used in galamsey contaminates water bodies and fish, which eventually enter the human food chain.

According to him, pregnant women who consume contaminated water or fish unknowingly pass the toxic substance directly to their unborn children.

“The mercury does not only stay in the water; it goes into the fish we eat,” Dr. Anokye explained. “When a pregnant woman consumes these foods, the mercury enters her system and crosses the placenta straight into the baby’s brain.”

Dr. Anokye noted that mercury is particularly dangerous because of its attraction to the brain. He explained that although unborn babies have a protective mechanism known as the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB), mercury easily penetrates it without resistance.

“The mercury finds it easy to enter the baby’s brain without the Blood Brain Barrier stopping it,” he said.

According to the doctor, exposure to mercury during pregnancy can lead to serious neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy.

He explained that some affected children struggle to walk after birth, while others who are able to walk later show poor academic performance due to reduced intelligence levels.

“Those who can walk may still find it difficult to perform well academically because their IQ becomes very low,” Dr. Anokye added.

He further revealed that children born to mothers living in galamsey-prone areas often experience developmental delays, including late walking and speech difficulties.

These symptoms become evident when compared to children whose mothers were not exposed to contaminated food or water during pregnancy.

“We call it developmental delay,” he said. “When you compare their growth with children from non-galamsey areas, you clearly see delays in walking and speaking.”

Dr. Anokye’s warning adds to growing concerns about the long-term public health consequences of illegal mining activities and underscores the need for urgent action to protect vulnerable communities, especially pregnant women and children.
Sompaonline.com/Derrick Djan