Sea Turtle Consumption Linked to Fatalities and Health Risks Worldwide

A new study reveals that consumption of sea turtles causes 420 deaths and over 2,400 cases of chelonitoxism globally. The illness, characterized by symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, has been reported primarily in the Indo-Pacific. Hawksbill turtles are mostly linked to these poisonings. Increased awareness and preventive measures are essential to address this public health issue.

A recent study highlights the severe health risks associated with sea turtle consumption, linking it to 420 fatalities and over 2,400 cases of chelonitoxism, a rare seafood poisoning. The latest incident occurred in the Philippines, resulting in three deaths following the consumption of an endangered sea turtle stew. Earlier this year, nine people died in Tanzania after eating turtle meat, reflecting the global risk of this practice.

Chelonitoxism manifests through symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, exacerbating into serious conditions including multiorgan failure and death in extreme cases. A 2024 study published in Science of the Total Environment documented 62 incidents of this poisoning across the Caribbean and the Indian and Pacific Oceans, showcasing a minimum of 2,424 affected individuals and highlighting the condition’s severity.

The research indicates most cases occurred in remote areas of the Indo-Pacific, with Madagascar, India, and French Polynesia as significant hotspots for reported incidents. Notably, although illegal exploitation of turtles in Haiti is significant, instances of poisoning in the broader Caribbean are rare or underreported, suggesting a hidden prevalence of cases.

Hawksbill turtles are primarily responsible for chelonitoxism, accounting for 59% of cases, while green turtles are implicated in 23%. Toxicity appears to be present in all turtle organs, complicating safety irrespective of preparation methods. Notably, eggs are sometimes consumed for their purported aphrodisiac properties, further increasing health risks.

Infants can also suffer the consequences of sea turtle poisoning through breastfeeding, as toxins can transfer via breast milk. The study suggests that intravenous lipid emulsions may aid in treating chelonitoxism victims, a method successfully used for curing turtle cases of brevetoxicosis, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures.

In summary, sea turtle consumption poses serious health risks, with alarming statistics highlighting 420 deaths and over 2,400 poisonings worldwide due to chelonitoxism. The disease’s prevalence in specific global regions, especially the Indo-Pacific, necessitates increased awareness and stricter enforcement against illegal turtle harvesting. Continued research and potential treatments underline the critical need for better public health initiatives to mitigate these risks.

Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com