Galamsey fueling rise in kidney, liver diseases — GHOSPA warns

The Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) has expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of kidney and liver diseases in communities affected by illegal mining activities.

The association said the surge in renal and hepatic complications is directly linked to the high levels of mercury and other toxic metals contaminating water sources used by households in mining areas.

Dr Emmanuel Owiafe, National Chairman of GHOSPA, made these remarks on the sidelines of Pharmacy Technicians Association of Ghana’s (PTAC) 16th Annual General Conference, under the theme “Transforming Pharmacy Technicians Education and Practice in Ghana, 50 years of Innovation, Excellence and Impact” on October 17 in Kumasi.

He said the situation poses a major public health threat and requires urgent government intervention.

“A number of patients are now being reported with increased issues related to their kidneys and livers, and it is becoming a menace to the entire population. That is why we, as the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana and the GHOSPA alike, are calling for swift and decisive action from the government,” he stated.

Dr. Owiafe added that the association has long discussed the health implications of galamsey and believes it is time for authorities to move beyond dialogue and take concrete steps to curb the practice.

“We have examined several aspects of the health effects of galamsey. The decision now must be something decisive that the government can take,” he emphasised.