Health experts have raised urgent concerns about the detrimental effects of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, on fertility rates in Ghana.
They link this crisis to the toxic chemicals, like mercury and cyanide, used in the mining process.
According to the President of the Fertility Society of Ghana (FERSOG), Dr Rudolph Kantum Adageba, these harmful substances pose serious risks to reproductive health for both men and women, significantly threatening the future of families in the region.
Dr Adageba raised these critical concerns during the 7th Annual General and Scientific Conference in Kumasi.
He highlighted that prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals used in these mining practices poses significant risks to reproductive health, including infertility and abnormal DNA.
This, he said, can lead to a range of serious long-term health issues.
“The chemicals used in galamsey can seriously affect the reproductive system. Heavy metals, when absorbed into the body, can damage the DNA of sperm and eggs. This DNA is crucial; it contains the genetic information that determines organ development,” Dr. Adageba explained.
He further warned that defective DNA can lead to complications in both natural conception and assisted reproductive technologies like In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).
“It’s not just an issue for those undergoing IVF; even those who conceive naturally may face these risks,” he concluded, calling for immediate and effective measures to safeguard future generations.
Dr Adageba emphasised the urgent need for action, calling for stricter enforcement of mining regulations to protect public health.
He further urged authorities to take decisive steps against illegal mining activities, ensuring that environmental and health standards are upheld.