Las Tunas warns of mercury-related harm from gold mining
A toxicologist reported treating more than 25 patients since 2024 for conditions linked to exposure to the metal.
Artisanal gold mining that uses mercury is raising concern over possible health effects in Las Tunas. Toxicologist Alejandro Mestre Barroso said more than 25 patients have been treated since 2024 for conditions associated with exposure.
The cases described include people between ages 25 and 30 with acute kidney failure. Neurological and psychiatric disorders, as well as polyneuropathies, have also been reported.
The problem particularly affects Jobabo and the communities of La Guásima and Jobabito. The report refers to signs of the activity in other areas, including El Cornito, and says provincial warnings began in 2024 and continued in 2025 and 2026.