An initial report on research into chronic kidney disease in Yobe State has revealed the presence of heavy metals in water sources consumed by residents of Gashua town.
The Lead Researcher and Director of the Biomedical Research and Training Centre, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Professor Mahmoud Maina, disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Damaturu.
According to NAN, Gashua, Jakusko, and several other communities located along the Yobe River have for decades been severely affected by renal failure, resulting in high rates of morbidity and mortality.
Professor Maina, a neuroscientist and Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Science, Research and Innovation, explained that laboratory findings identified toxic metals such as cadmium, lead, and arsenic in water samples from the affected areas. He noted that these substances are not expected to be present in the environment under normal conditions and are known to pose serious health risks.
He further stated that the report indicated chronic kidney disease in the area is also significantly driven by pre-existing medical conditions, including diabetes and hypertension. The researcher added that fishermen were found to be the most affected occupational group, compared to other residents.
Professor Maina emphasized the need for urgent public health interventions, improved water quality monitoring, and further research to mitigate the growing burden of kidney disease in the affected communities.
