Source: GBC News
A Medical Expert is alarmed over the potential rise in child deformities caused by the activities of illegal miners, commonly known as “galamsey.”
Dr. Opoku-Ware Ampomah, the CEO of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and Medical Director for Operation Smile, has raised serious concerns.
Dr. Ampomah particularly highlighted the increasing prevalence of cleft lip and palate conditions, which he believes are linked to environmental factors influenced by such activities.
Speaking at a news conference ahead of an Operation Smile mission scheduled for September, Dr. Ampomah explained that while genetic factors play a role in causing cleft conditions, environmental influences are equally significant.
He specifically pointed out that heavy metal contamination from galamsey operations poses serious risks.
“Clefts are caused by a number of factors, including both genetic and environmental influences. Heavy metal contamination, which is prevalent in galamsey activities, can cause birth defects.
Since clefting is one of the most common congenital deformities, it’s reasonable to conclude that contamination of water bodies and food sources could lead to higher rates of such abnormalities in children,” Dr. Ampomah emphasized.
Cleft lip and palate are among the most common facial deformities but can be corrected with surgery.
Dr. Ampomah noted that approximately 2,500 people have already received free and safe surgeries under Operation Smile’s initiative.
He encouraged parents of children with cleft conditions not to lose hope but to seek timely medical help.
“There’s treatment available, which is the good news. We urge parents to come forward and seek care for their children,” he stated.
As part of his cautionary advice, Dr. Ampomah urged women of childbearing age to be mindful of what they ingest, particularly if they miss their periods.
He warned against taking unprescribed medications, as certain substances could adversely affect the development of their unborn children.
He also expressed gratitude to volunteers of Operation Smile for their commitment to transforming lives through their relentless dedication. “I appreciate all our volunteers for their hard work, passion, and unwavering support in creating smiles and changing lives,” he said.
Operation Smile Ghana, a non-profit organization, is the largest provider of free cleft care in the country, offering transformative surgeries to children and adults with cleft conditions.
Cleft conditions typically develop early in pregnancy, leading to openings in the lip (cleft lip) or the roof of the mouth (cleft palate).
These conditions can cause difficulties in eating, breathing, hearing, and speaking. However, with timely surgery, those affected can live a normal life.
Acting Country Manager of Operation Smile, Henry Quist, encouraged parents and guardians to take advantage of the outreach programs.
He advised that parents should contact Operation Smile as soon as a child with a cleft condition is born. While surgeries are typically conducted after six months, nutritional support is provided during the initial months to ensure the child’s health is optimized for surgery.
Quist emphasized the profound impact of these surgeries, noting that they do more than just correct physical deformities.
“The surgeries boost the self-esteem of these children, improving their quality of life and opening new opportunities for them,” he said.
Several parents whose children benefited from the initiative shared their testimonials, expressing gratitude for the life-changing interventions.
Operation Smile Ghana collaborates with several healthcare facilities across the country, including Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Eastern Regional Hospital, and Ho Teaching Hospital, to provide cleft care.
The organization remains committed to helping children born with cleft conditions regain their smiles and live healthier lives.