Forensic Pathologist Professor Paul Poku Sampene Ossei has revealed that illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, are contributing to hundreds of pregnancy losses in Ghana, describing the situation as a “silent public health disaster.”
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme, Prof. Ossei disclosed that ongoing research has identified more than 500 cases of spontaneous abortions linked to the presence of heavy metals in the placentas of pregnant women living in communities affected by galamsey.
He explained that the devastating effects of illegal mining extend beyond environmental destruction to pose severe health risks, particularly to pregnant women and unborn children.
“In some hospitals located in galamsey-prone areas, women who go for check-ups after noticing blood spots usually do not return home with their pregnancies intact,” he noted.
Sharing findings from his research, Prof. Ossei revealed that he has examined about 4,500 placentas, with results pointing to high concentrations of toxic metals as a major factor in the reported pregnancy losses.
The pathologist further warned about the potential health risks associated with the use of certain chemicals in water treatment. He cited aluminium hydroxide, commonly applied in high concentrations to treat heavily polluted water, as a substance that could trigger serious long-term health complications if not closely monitored.
“When taken over a long period, high levels of aluminium hydroxide can cause kidney problems, respiratory tract irritation, and even neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease,” he cautioned.
Prof. Ossei urged politicians and policymakers to approach the fight against illegal mining with objectivity and consistency, stressing that the health and environmental crises caused by galamsey must be treated as a national emergency.
