The Vice President of the Ghana Medical Association, Prof. Ernest Yoke, has disclosed that much of the food available on the market today may be eventually contaminated due to illegal mining activities in rural areas.

According to him, research conducted by members of the association has revealed that certain food products and livestock have been affected by these contaminants.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on September 7, he said there is an urgent need for collective efforts to eradicate this menace.

He argued that no one is safe until illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, is brought to a halt.

“There are tons of publications that suggest that it has gone beyond just the immediate environs of the galamsey. It is coming to town.

“So you live in Accra and you think you are safe, I tell you go to Agblobloshie, you go to Mallam Atta to buy food it is coming home,” he said.

Prof. Yoke further warned that consuming these contaminated foods over the long term can cause damage to vital organs.

He hinted that the recent rise in kidney-related cases might be linked to the effects of illegal mining, on the environment.

The GMA vice president argued that no one is safe until galamsey is brought to a halt.

Source: Myjoyonline.com

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