High Arsenic, Mercury in Fish Threaten Public Health
A study published in Scientific Reports found alarming levels of arsenic and mercury in fish from Ghana’s Keta Lagoon, with 75% of 12 samples exceeding WHO arsenic safety thresholds and all surpassing mercury limits. Conducted during the minor rainy season, the research by Dr. Richard Tsiwah Cobbinah of KNUST used advanced spectrometry, revealing industrial and agricultural runoff as likely pollution sources
The health risks associated with consuming fish and other seafood from the lagoon are a major concern. The government and health officials must take steps to educate the public about the potential risks and provide guidance on safe consumption practices.”
The lagoon’s closed ecosystem, separated by a sandbar, traps pollutants, endangering local communities reliant on fishing. Health risk assessments showed hazard index values of 14.5 for adults and 44.1 for children, with arsenic, mercury, and chromium posing significant cancer risks for children. Non-carcinogenic risks are also elevated, particularly for children, per DownToEarth.
Local fisherman Etsey Gago urged urgent government action to address pollution, citing risks to human and aquatic life. The EPA notes that arsenic, a carcinogen, and mercury can cause severe health issues, especially for children and pregnant women. Researchers call for stricter regulations, sustainable lagoon management, and public education on safe fish consumption, per GNA.