A series of disturbing reports have emerged regarding a Vietnamese hemorrhoid ointment, Cao Boi Tri Cay Thau Dau, which has been linked to lead poisoning and even death in two women from California and Sacramento respectively. The ointment, marketed primarily through Facebook ads, contains a highly dangerous amount of lead - 4% according to health officials.
The first incident occurred in Sacramento where a woman died after using the ointment. Northern Nevada Public Health issued a warning advising people not to use the product and urging those who have it at home to put it in a sealed plastic bag and contact their local health department for further instructions.
A second incident was reported in California, where another woman also died from lead poisoning after using the same Vietnamese hemorrhoid ointment. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has urged residents to avoid using the product and advised anyone who has used it to stop immediately and see a healthcare provider for a blood lead test.
Symptoms of lead poisoning can range from mild to severe, including fatigue, muscle or joint pain, nausea, headaches, severe stomach cramping, seizures, coma and even death. Chronic exposure to lead is associated with kidney dysfunction and hypertension.
Lead exposure can harm the brain and nervous system in children and adults alike. The CDPH states that neurological effects from high levels of lead exposure during early childhood include learning disabilities, behavior difficulties, and lowered IQ. For adults, chronic lead exposure is associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive effects.
It is unclear if the ointment can be purchased directly in the United States. According to the FDA, most intentional uses of lead in products and processes are banned in the United States.
Health officials advise that consumers should be extremely cautious when using unregulated health products available online or through social media. Many of these products overpromise to cure or relieve ailments and are not tested for safety. Putting these products on or in your body can have serious consequences.
The California Department of Public Health advises anyone who has used the Vietnamese hemorrhoid ointment, Cao Boi Tri Cay Thau Dau, to stop using it immediately and see a healthcare provider for a blood lead test. The product should be put in a plastic bag and contact their local health department for further instructions.
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