Perspective and a proposed study to investigate the threat of hypertension and renal damage due to heavy metal pollution of rivers affected by illegal mining activities (galamsey) in Ghana

Several water assessments of some rivers affected by illegal mining (locally known as galamsey ) activities in Ghana have recorded high levels of heavy metals and metalloids (such as lead, cadmium, copper, arsenic, mercury, iron and zinc); this poses significant health threats to communities served by affected rivers. To the best of our knowledge, the haematological study by Armah and colleagues is the only one that revealed staggering folds of blood metal concentrations beyond the WHO-required levels in inhabitants of the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality and Prestea-Huni Valley District of Ghana. As inhabitants of communities near galamsey sites are constantly exposed to heavy metals since some individuals rely on polluted rivers for domestic purposes, it is necessary to investigate and understand the threat of hypertension and renal damage associated with this unfortunate situation. We share our perspective and a proposed study to elucidate the exact hypertensive and renal damage associated with heavy metal exposure in galamsey -polluted rivers in Ghana. Onsite/human studies should provide important information about blood metal concentrations and current hypertension, renal function and genetic status of individuals exposed to heavy metals in specific galamsey-infested areas. Experimental studies using Sprague-Dawley rat models should determine the proportion of anthropogenic contribution to the levels of heavy metals in the bloodstream. Furthermore, the experimental studies should determine the extent (concentrations and time) and the possible mechanisms/pathways of galamsey-related heavy metals that trigger the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of hypertension and renal damage.