Galamsey Activities Linked to Potential Rise in Cleft Lip and Palate Cases

Dr. Opoku-Ware Ampomah, CEO of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and Medical Director for Operation Smile, has raised concerns about the potential increase in cleft lip and palate cases due to illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey. He emphasized that, in addition to genetic factors, environmental influences, particularly those related to heavy metal contamination from galamsey, could significantly contribute to these congenital deformities.

“Clefts are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors,” Dr. Ampomah explained at a recent news conference ahead of an Operation Smile mission. “Heavy metal contamination from galamsey activities can cause birth defects, including cleft lip and palate, one of the most common facial deformities. If our water and food sources are polluted with these metals, the likelihood of children being born with such abnormalities increases.”

Dr. Ampomah highlighted the availability of corrective surgery for cleft conditions, noting that Operation Smile has successfully provided safe surgeries to approximately 2,500 individuals. He urged parents not to lose hope if their child is born with this condition but to seek medical help promptly.

He also cautioned women of childbearing age to be mindful of their health, particularly when they miss a period, to avoid unintentionally consuming substances that could harm their unborn child. Dr. Ampomah expressed gratitude to the volunteers of Operation Smile for their dedication to improving lives through surgery.

Cleft conditions, which develop during early pregnancy, result in openings in the lip or roof of the mouth, causing difficulties with breathing, eating, hearing, and speaking. Operation Smile Ghana, the country's largest provider of free cleft care, collaborates with several partner hospitals to offer life-changing surgeries. Acting Country Manager, Henry Quist, encouraged parents to seek help as soon as a child is born with this condition, emphasizing the transformative impact of the surgery on a child’s quality of life and future opportunities.

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