Dermatological Manifestations of Mercury Exposure: A Growing Concern in Ghana

This morning, I had the privilege of appearing on Kessben TV to discuss an increasingly urgent but often overlooked public health issue — the dermatological manifestations of mercury exposure in contaminated water bodies, particularly within Ghana’s small-scale mining communities.

The Hidden Impact of Mercury on the Skin

Mercury, a heavy metal extensively used in artisanal and illegal gold mining, has progressively contaminated rivers and water systems across several mining belts in Ghana. While its neurological, renal, and systemic effects are widely acknowledged, the cutaneous implications — those visible on the skin — have received far less attention.

Chronic exposure to mercury can lead to a cascade of dermatological changes that may serve as early indicators of systemic toxicity. These include: • Hyperpigmentation and desquamation (skin peeling) • Chronic dermatitis and pruritus (persistent itching) • Delayed wound healing and increased skin sensitivity • Nail discolouration and brittleness • In severe cases, cutaneous lesions reflecting systemic mercury toxicity

These skin changes are not merely aesthetic concerns; they represent biological warnings of environmental distress — visible signs of deeper toxicological processes that threaten public health and ecological stability.

A Call for Interdisciplinary Public Health Collaboration

At Skin Foundation Africa (SFA), we recognise that combating the dermatological and systemic consequences of mercury pollution requires multisectoral collaboration. This includes dermatologists, environmental scientists, public health professionals, traditional authorities, and policy makers.

Under our Education and Advocacy Pillar, SFA is committed to forming partnerships with local assemblies, NGOs, environmental protection agencies, and community leaders to spearhead public education and preventive health outreach in communities residing near contaminated water bodies.

Our framework integrates scientific education, behavioural health strategies, and culturally sensitive community engagement, empowering affected populations with knowledge and practical tools for self-protection and advocacy.

Educate • Prevent • Heal

Our mission at Skin Foundation Africa remains steadfast: 💧 To Educate — by disseminating evidence-based information on the dermatological and systemic impacts of mercury exposure. 💧 To Prevent — through sustained public awareness, community partnerships, and policy dialogue. 💧 To Heal — by restoring skin health, confidence, and dignity among those affected.

Looking Ahead

Skin Foundation Africa envisions a continent where environmental integrity and dermatological health are inseparably linked. We call upon government agencies, corporate institutions, academic bodies, and international partners to collaborate in expanding this public health initiative across Africa.

Together, we can protect our people, our water, and our skin — ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.

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About the Author

Dr. Kofi Ansah Brifo is a Ghanaian dermatologist, educator, and founder of Skin Foundation Africa, an organisation dedicated to promoting skin health through education, advocacy, research, and community outreach across Africa. He also serves as the West Africa Representative on the Communications Committee of the International Society of Dermatology (ISD).

📩 For partnerships or media enquiries: 🌐 Website: https://theskinmessiah.org