Core Viewpoint - China will ban the production of mercury thermometers and sphygmomanometers starting January 1, 2026, due to health and environmental concerns, marking the end of an era for mercury-based medical devices [1][2]. Group 1: Health Risks of Mercury - Mercury, contained in traditional thermometers, poses significant health risks, including acute symptoms like headaches and chronic effects such as damage to the central nervous system and kidneys [2][3]. - Sensitive populations, including children and pregnant women, are at risk of irreversible harm, such as developmental delays and fetal deformities due to mercury exposure [3]. Group 2: Environmental Impact - Mercury is a neurotoxic heavy metal that can accumulate in the food chain, posing risks to marine life and human health [4]. - The biological magnification of mercury can lead to high concentrations in marine organisms, which can ultimately affect human consumers [4]. Group 3: Transition to Alternative Products - The market is shifting towards electronic and non-mercury alternatives, which are safer and more user-friendly [8]. - Various alternatives include gallium-indium-tin thermometers, electronic thermometers, ear thermometers, and forehead thermometers, each with unique features and accuracy levels [8][10]. Group 4: Usage and Safety Guidelines - Existing mercury thermometers can still be used if intact and within the registration validity period, but users should be aware of the associated risks and proper handling methods [5]. - In case of breakage, specific steps must be followed for safe cleanup, including ventilation and proper collection of mercury beads [6][7]. Group 5: Accuracy of Electronic Devices - Concerns about the accuracy of electronic thermometers exist, with reported discrepancies of up to 1°C among different brands [10]. - It is crucial to choose products with medical device registration and to follow proper usage instructions to ensure reliable readings [10].

Core Viewpoint - The production of mercury thermometers and blood pressure monitors will be completely banned starting January 1 next year, as announced by the National Medical Products Administration, marking a significant shift towards safer measurement devices [1][5]. Group 1: Historical Context - Mercury thermometers have been in use for over 300 years, regarded as the "gold standard" for temperature measurement due to their accuracy and reliability [2][4]. - The principle behind mercury thermometers is based on the thermal expansion of liquids, with mercury providing a stable and wide temperature range compared to alternatives like alcohol [4]. Group 2: Reasons for the Ban - The primary reason for the ban is the toxicity of mercury, which poses health risks to the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as potential harm to fetal and child development [5]. - The ban is also a commitment to the Minamata Convention, aimed at controlling global mercury pollution, as mercury can persist in the environment and convert to highly toxic methylmercury [5][7]. Group 3: Alternatives to Mercury Thermometers - Contact electronic thermometers are a viable alternative, with an accuracy range of ±0.1℃ to ±0.2℃ within the clinical measurement range of 35℃ to 41℃, meeting clinical diagnostic needs [8]. - Non-mercury thermometers made from gallium-indium-tin alloy are also available, maintaining the same operational principles as traditional thermometers but using safer materials [8]. Group 4: Environmental and Safety Considerations - While mercury thermometers are not the primary source of mercury pollution, their discontinuation will contribute to pollution control efforts [7]. - Proper disposal methods for broken mercury thermometers include using a plastic bottle for collection and ensuring safe handling to minimize exposure to mercury vapor [10].

Core Insights - The artisanal gold mining boom in Ghana has led to severe mercury contamination in local communities, with soil mercury levels in some areas reaching 134 times the safe limit [1] Group 1: Environmental Impact - Mercury contamination has reached dangerous levels due to increased artisanal gold mining activities [1] - Soil readings in certain areas indicate mercury levels that are 134 times higher than what is considered safe [1] Group 2: Community Health Risks - Host communities are facing significant health risks due to the elevated mercury levels resulting from mining operations [1]