Dr. Benson Owusu, a public health expert, is raising the alarm over the growing exposure of children to toxic heavy metals from illegal mining and open burning, warning that contamination from galamsey operations and air pollution could increase the risk of diabetes and other life-threatening diseases.

The Korle Bu Teaching Hospital recorded more than 5,000 cases of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the first half of 2025, including complicated diabetes referrals and over 2,000 kidney cases. Experts say this represents rising numbers and underscores concerns about the health impact of environmental pollution linked to illegal mining, which continues to spread across parts of the country despite its known risks.

Dr. Owusu, a lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Central University, says exposure to heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic through contaminated food, water, or air can seriously damage vital organs. He explained that these toxic substances can harm the pancreas, the organ responsible for regulating blood sugar, potentially triggering diabetes, including Type 1 diabetes, even in children.

Affected children may exhibit symptoms such as constant hunger, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss despite normal eating, as their bodies struggle to convert food into energy. Untreated diabetes, Dr. Owusu warns, can lead to severe complications including blindness, kidney failure, and high blood pressure, as the disease gradually damages blood vessels and other vital organs.

He also cautioned that inhaling smoke from open burning allows toxic particles to enter the bloodstream through the lungs, further affecting organs responsible for blood sugar regulation.

Dr. Owusu is advising parents to carefully monitor the food their children consume, encourage regular physical activity, and rely on products approved by the Food and Drugs Authority to reduce exposure to contaminated items.

The warning highlights the urgent need for public awareness and stronger enforcement against illegal mining and environmental pollution to protect the health of children and future generations.