The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 14) appealed to the public not to buy or use a whitening cream product as it may contain excessive mercury, which is harmful to health and may result in serious side effects.  

     The CHP made the appeal upon notification by the Hospital Authority (HA) of a case of mercury poisoning involving a female patient aged 26. The patient, who has good past health, developed generalised edema since late December 2017 and revealed a history of using the above product for the last three months. Her urine sample revealed a mercury level higher than the reference level, which was clinically suspected to be related to the use of the product.  

     Testing by the HA revealed that the product sample submitted by the patient contains a mercury level which is 9 456 times higher than the acceptable level. The CHP's investigation is continuing. The case has also been referred to the relevant law enforcement agency for follow-up and investigation.

     "Chronic exposure to mercury can cause damage to the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms may include tremors, irritability, insomnia, deterioration of memory, difficulty in concentration, impaired hearing and vision, and change in the taste function. In severe cases, renal failure may occur," a spokesman for the CHP said.  

     "As the content of mercury in the product far exceeded the acceptable level, its use may result in serious side effects. People should stop using the product immediately and consult healthcare professionals as soon as possible if they are unwell or in doubt. Members of the public are urged not to buy or use cosmetic products of unknown composition or obtained from doubtful sources," the spokesman said.   

Ends/Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Issued at HKT 17:30

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