Sea Turtle Consumption Linked to Significant Health Risks and Fatalities Worldwide

A recent study reveals that sea turtle consumption has resulted in 420 fatalities and over 2,400 illnesses due to chelonitoxism, a particularly severe seafood poisoning. Notable incidents occurred in the Philippines and Tanzania, highlighting the risks associated with eating sea turtles, particularly hawksbill and green turtles. The study calls for more awareness and potential remedies for affected individuals.

A recent study highlights the dangerous consequences of consuming sea turtles, linking the practice to at least 420 fatalities and over 2,400 illnesses caused by chelonitoxism, a rare and severe seafood poisoning. The latest case occurred in the Philippines, resulting in three deaths and numerous hospitalizations after the consumption of an endangered sea turtle stew. Earlier in 2024, a similar incident in Tanzania resulted in nine deaths and 78 hospitalizations due to sea turtle meat consumption.

Chelonitoxism, known for affecting the upper digestive system, presents symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Patients may also experience dizziness, malaise, and sweating, with severe instances leading to glossitis, dysphagia, and multi-organ failure. Despite recovery occurring generally within a week, some may experience long-lasting neurological complications.

The study, published in December 2024 in the Science of the Total Environment journal, analyzed 62 cases of chelonitoxism in the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific regions. It indicated at least 2,424 individuals experienced related illnesses and 420 succumbed to the condition. Most cases were concentrated in remote areas of the Indo-Pacific, including Madagascar, India, and the Philippines.

Notably, Madagascar accounted for 25.4% of incidents, while other regions like French Polynesia and Sri Lanka reported similar cases. The study indicated that illegal turtle exploitation, particularly in Haiti, could lead to underreported incidents of poisoning. This suggests that actual cases of turtle-related poisoning are likely far higher than the documented numbers.

The research pointed to hawksbill turtles as the principal cause of chelonitoxism, responsible for 59% of cases, with green turtles involved in 23% of incidents. All turtle organs pose toxicity risks, regardless of preparation. Notably, the consumption of turtle eggs, thought to possess aphrodisiac qualities, is mentioned as well.

Breastfed infants are also at risk for chelonitoxism, as toxins can pass through breast milk even without direct consumption of turtle meat. The study proposed intravenous lipid emulsion treatments as a potential remedy for affected individuals, which has proven effective for sea turtles suffering from similar toxicities. The authors emphasize the need for increased awareness and reporting concerning the dangers of sea turtle consumption.

This study underscores the severe health risks associated with sea turtle consumption, highlighting the need for heightened awareness and education regarding chelonitoxism. Given the potential for underreporting and the high risk of poisoning, it is imperative to address illegal exploitation and promote the protection of sea turtle populations and public health. Effective treatments for poisonings must continue to be developed and disseminated to save lives.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com