Complications due to skin whitening creams on the rise

Colombo, July 04 (Daily Mirror) - Health officials in Sri Lanka have raised alarms over a significant increase in kidney disease cases linked to the use of skin whitening creams, surpassing even cancer incidences. 

Speaking at a press conference at the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Indira Kahawita, a Consultant Dermatologist, emphasized the alarming trend. 

"There is a joint program between the World Health Organization and the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health aimed at completely eliminating the use of mercury. The goal is zero mercury usage. However, these harmful substances are being applied across the entire body, leading to severe health consequences. Mercury exposure can result in kidney failure," Dr. Kahawita stated.

Dr. Kahawita shared her recent findings, saying, "In a 24-hour period, I examined approximately 60 patients across 40 clinics. Out of these, 10% presented with issues directly related to whitening creams. These are not long-term effects but immediate concerns, such as stretch marks."

She further noted disturbing symptoms, including blackening of the palms and discoloration of nails turning brown or orange, which have become increasingly common in recent months. 

"These short-term side effects are appearing more frequently than before and pose significant health risks even before cancer develops," Dr. Kahawita warned.