NAFDAC Warns Alcohol Consumers Of Potential Blindness Risk

• NAFDAC issues warning on counterfeit alcohol, citing health risks like respiratory issues and kidney failure.

• Methanol in fake vodka can cause permanent blindness, emphasizes agency.

• Consumers urged to scrutinize branded drinks and buy only from registered retailers.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued a cautionary alert to Nigerians regarding counterfeit alcohol consumption, highlighting its potential health hazards.

NAFDAC emphasized the dangers associated with fake alcohol, including respiratory issues, abdominal discomfort, and the grave risks of kidney failure and even death.

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The agency, through its Resident Media Consultant, Sayo Akintola, emphasized the risk of methanol, a component found in fake vodka, which could lead to irreversible blindness.

“Drinking adulterated alcohol can cause nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, and dizziness, blue tinged or pale skin, irregular or slow breathing, low body temperature, unconsciousness or passing out. It can also lead to kidney and liver failure or even death. Methanol, a substance which can be used in fake vodka, may cause permanent blindness,” the statement read.

Citing a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in its Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health, NAFDAC stated that more than three million people have died globally as a result of alcohol poisoning.

The Agency urged Nigerians to always scrutinize branded drinks to avoid consuming fake alcohol.

They warned that only NAFDAC registered drinks from reputable and licenced retailers, bars and supermarkets should be consumed.

NAFDAC also highlighted the importance of looking for the manufacturer’s contact information and address.

“WHO, in their Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health estimated that more than three million people died all over the world as a result of alcohol poisoning. Furthermore, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) ascertained that one of every 10 cancer cases in Nigeria can be traced to Alcohol and 4.7 percent of overall cancer cases in Nigeria in 2019 can be attributed to consumption of adulterated alcohol.

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“While urging Nigerians to remain vigilant, the agency is also tasking consumers to always scrutinize branded drinks to distinguish them from counterfeits before consuming them. NAFDAC wishes to advise that members of the public should shine their eyes and think about the 4 Ps (place, price, packaging and product) before buying of alcohol,” the agency said.

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