Silicosis, persistent pneumothorax, and respiratory failure: Grim consequences of galamsey

Adamu Issaka; Musah Yakubu; Theophilus Justus Kofi  Adjeso

doi:10.46829/hsijournal.2024.6.5.2.744-746

Adamu Issaka Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit, School of Medicine, University for Development Studies & Surgery Department, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana
Musah Yakubu Surgery Department, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana
Theophilus Justus Kofi Adjeso ENT Department, School of Medicine, University for Development Studies & DEENT Department, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale, Ghana

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46829/hsijournal.2024.6.5.2.744-746

Keywords: Galamsey, asbestosis, respiratory failure, lung biopsy

Abstract

Illegal small-scale gold mining (galamsey) is often plagued with deleterious working environments and lack of proper safety protocols.

In this case report, a 32-year-old male galamsey miner presented with progressive shortness of breath, cough, chest pain and weight loss. A lung biopsy confirmed asbestosis and had persistent pneumothorax. Surgery could not be done due to the state of the lung. Despite immediate medical intervention, including chest tube insertion patient's condition deteriorated rapidly and he succumbed to respiratory failure.

This case report represent a tip of the iceberg in many galamsey workers. There is urgent need for intensified safety measures, regulatory enforcement, and improved healthcare access. Concerted efforts of various stakeholder collaborations are key to creating a safer and more sustainable mining industry.