By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY, Kwesimintsim
Dr. Simon Osei Frimpong, Medical Superintendent at the Kwesimintsim Hospital, has cautioned the public against using naphthalene balls – commonly known as ‘camphor’ – due to their harmful effects on health.
Speaking to B&FT, Dr. Frimpong explained that exposure to naphthalene can affect multiple parts of the body including the eyes, throat and sense of smell.
“We’ve observed that even minimal exposure can have adverse effects. It can also impact internal organs such as the liver and kidneys,” he said.
He noted that symptoms of naphthalene exposure may include diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting, adding that the substance does more harm than good.
“Naphthalene has carcinogenic properties, meaning it can increase the risk of cancer,” he stressed.
In many traditional settings, naphthalene is believed to repel insects and neutralise odours. However, Dr Frimpong warned that its toxic nature is often underestimated.
“We conducted a study and discovered that over 80 percent of mothers using naphthalene balls to freshen baby clothes were unknowingly putting their children at risk,” he revealed.
He explained that exposure to naphthalene can lead to jaundice in infants, as their red blood cells disintegrate easily. In severe cases, this can result in brain damage and lifelong mental impairment.
Dr. Frimpong, who is also a Family Physician Specialist, urged the public to seek safer alternatives for household use. “There are other, less harmful ways to keep clothes fresh or repel insects. Keeping the environment clean and occasionally spraying insecticides – away from children – can be effective,” he advised.
He also noted that naphthalene balls have been banned in many countries due to their health risks.
“Despite ongoing public education in Ghana, the product is still widely used. Parents in particular must play a critical role in keeping it out of their homes,” he added
