The Breast Society of Ghana has called for an immediate end to illegal mining, also known as galamsey, due to its significant public health hazards.

They warned that the chemicals used in these mining activities are endangering lives, with healthcare professionals reporting an increase in cases of birth defects and cancer that are tied to these uncontrolled operations.

In an interview with the media after the launch of Pinktober 2024, a breast cancer awareness initiative, Dr. Hannah Ayettey Anie, President of the Breast Society of Ghana, highlighted the critical need to stop galamsey to protect public health.

“These chemicals from illegal mining are highly dangerous to the body. From previous radiation disasters, we’ve seen they often result in birth defects, and we can’t yet predict the full extent of what this contamination will lead to,” Dr. Ayettey Anie explained.

She continued, “Galamsey is undeniably harmful. We urge all involved to stop immediately, as it impacts individuals and threatens the well-being of entire communities.”