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A Taiwanese man died of suspected lead poisoning after using the same
rusty thermos for over ten years, despite visible signs of metal
degradation.
Taiwanese media recently reported the tragic death of a man whose severe
lung infection was exacerbated by heavy metal poisoning. The man
reportedly started experiencing health problems about a year ago, and
blood tests showed that he was suffering from heavy metal poisoning.
While trying to discover the source of the contamination, doctors
learned that the man had been using the same thermos on a daily basis
for the last 10 years. Upon examining the container, they discovered
rust had formed inside of it, which hadn’t prevented the patient from
using it to store acidic beverages like coffee, tea, and juice.
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Unfortunately, despite seeing the rust and knowing that his thermal
container was obviously not made from a rust-proof material, the patient
continued using it, relying only on simple rinsing to clean it. It’s not
clear when the thermos started leaking heavy metals into the drinks, but
by the time the patient showed up at the hospital, it was already too
late. The poisoning affected his immune system, and despite the doctors’
best efforts, he succumbed to pneumonia less than a year after his
initial diagnosis. “The thermos may have been used for a long period of
time, and in particular, toxins generated when containing carbonated
beverages such as cola may have entered the body,” doctors concluded.
The man’s tragic case has been shared by mainstrea media in Taiwan as a
cautionary tale, with health experts advising people to make sure they
opt for a thermos made of 304 stainless steel, avoid using it to carry
acidic beverages, and make sure to clean it regularly. Also, changing
the thermos after two or three years of constant use is recommended.
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