the same as the acute effects, including deafness, speech difficulties, and a lessened visual field (EPA).
Reproductive, Developement, and Carcinogenic Effects
The next category of methyl mercury effects are reproductive and developmental. This is the most harmful category, considering the fact that methyl mercury intake
concentrates “in the brain of a developing fetus” (Get the). Oral intake during pregnancy leads to extreme harmful effects on fetuses. According to the EPA, pregnant women who eat large quantities of methyl mercury have fetuses that show different CNS effects. Some of the more extreme ones including mental retardation; ataxia—referring to difficulties with movement and balance due to parts of the nervous system that are affected (NAF); and cerebral palsy—“a disorder that affects muscle tone, movement and motor skills” (KidsHealth). These effects weren’t exhibited with women who were exposed to lower concentrations, but they showed “developmental delays and abnormal reflexes” (EPA). The final category of effects noted by the EPA is the carcinogenic effects. This means that it causes can cause cancer. Unfortunately, the carcinogenic
effects on humans are unknown, but a study on mice reported renal tumors. Due to the lack of data on humans, the “EPA has classified methyl mercury as a Group C, , possible human carcinogen” (EPA).
Are There Any Solutions?
Unfortunately, damage done by methyl mercury is incurable. However,
there are a few treatment options to
help remove a patient,“from the
source of exposure”
(NY Times). The
New York Times lists
the following
options: activated
charcoal, fluids and
electrolytes, and
dialysis. In addition
to these, the OEHHA
suggested options
for the reduction of
methyl mercury
intake.First, they
suggest that
people should
thoroughly wash
and gut the fish
before eating
because “mercury
may be present in
the liver and other
organs of the fish”
(OEHHA). The
second
way is to only eat
small fish since
larger fish tend to
have larger amounts of the chemical
present in their bodies (OEHHA).
Methyl mercury is an extremely dagerous substance, and it is wise to avoid it as much as possible. However, it is impossible to not get some exposure to it. Therefore, it is necessary to learn about it, such as the effects of it, and possible ways to reduce the risk of getting exposed to it. For more information on methyl mercury, please visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s website (epa.gov).
Average levels of mercury in consumed fish in Puerto Maldonado, compared to the reference of limit in fish. (0,3 ppm).
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