Dr. Ansar Naeem Highlights Health Risks Associated with Vegetables Cultivated from Sewage Water
MULTAN (ADNAN FAROOQ): In a bid to raise awareness about the potential health hazards posed by consuming vegetables grown with sewage water, Dr. Ansar Naeem Ullah, an Associate Professor at Nawaz Sharif Agricultural University, has shed light on the alarming risks faced by individuals who consume such produce. Dr. Ansar emphasized that despite washing these vegetables thoroughly, the chemicals absorbed during cultivation cannot be entirely eliminated, leading to various health issues including stomach ache, diarrhea, liver diseases, and jaundice.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Dr. Ansar pointed out that even animals consuming such contaminated vegetables produce milk and meat that pose threats to human health. He underscored the urgent need to address this issue to prevent further harm to public health.
Proposing solutions to mitigate the risks associated with sewage-grown vegetables, Dr. Ansar suggested adopting advanced farming techniques such as drip irrigation and tunnel farming. These methods can help control the cultivation environment and minimize the absorption of harmful substances from sewage water.
Supporting Dr. Ansar’s concerns, data collected from Nishtar Hospital in Multan revealed a concerning trend. In 2023 alone, the hospital screened the stomachs of over 26,000 patients, with more than 861,000 patients screened overall. Shockingly, 1853 cases of hepatitis B and 4010 cases of hepatitis C were diagnosed among the patients.
Dr. Ansar stressed the urgency for government intervention, urging immediate legislation to address this pressing issue. Without timely action, he warned that the number of individuals affected by diseases associated with sewage-grown vegetables could escalate significantly.
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The proactive stance taken by Dr. Ansar Naeem serves as a wake-up call, prompting authorities and the public alike to prioritize food safety and health. By raising awareness and advocating for preventative measures, Dr. Ansar strives to safeguard the well-being of communities and ensure a healthier future for all.
