Growing up, Dr Mercy Maina dreamed of wearing a white coat and saving lives—whether as a dentist, pharmacist, or medical doctor. But fate had other plans.
While pursuing her Bachelor’s in Pharmacy, two courses changed everything, leading her down an unexpected yet fascinating path: toxicology—the study of poisons and how to eliminate them from the body.
Now a seasoned consultant toxicologist, Dr Maina has dedicated her career to uncovering the invisible toxins we interact with every day, from the products we use to the medications we take.
When the BDLife meets her at her home in Nairobi, she speaks softly yet with unmistakable authority, painting a vivid picture of just how deeply toxins infiltrate our lives and how they could be affecting our health in ways we may not realise.
What inspired you to become a toxicologist?
From a young age, I had a clear vision of wanting to be a doctor, whether as a dentist, pharmacist, or medical doctor. I dedicated myself to this pursuit throughout my early years.
During my pharmacy studies, I explored various specialties and encountered toxicology. I was struck by the fact that we only covered it in a couple of units over five years.
This lack of focus made me question why such an essential field was so underrepresented. It became evident to me that toxicology is an area that is not only underserved but also desperately needs professionals.
What really captivated me was the life-saving potential of toxicology. When someone is poisoned and on the brink of death, the ability to administer an antidote and bring them back to life is a remarkable and powerful aspect of this field. This realization solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in toxicology.
What did you study exactly?
I completed a Bachelor of Pharmacy at Mount Kenya University, followed by a Master’s in Science majoring in Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Nairobi.
What has been the biggest challenge you face as a toxicologist?
One of the biggest challenges I face as a toxicologist is that few people, including doctors, are aware of what toxicology is. I often have to explain my work to everyone I meet.
What skills are important for someone pursuing a career in toxicology?
They include proficiency in sciences, strong research abilities, being tech-savvy, maintaining confidentiality, and effective communication in an easily understandable manner.
Are there any misconceptions about toxicology?
Yes, there are many. Numerous companies market detox products like slimming teas and juices that are affordable. This leads people to wonder why they should pay a toxicologist when their goal is to lose weight. They might think they can simply join these groups and follow their regimen.
What are the dangers of that, though?
First and foremost, you may be given supplements or products that could interact with other medications you are currently taking.
I assume that individuals seeking a detox programme may have conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, which require medication prescribed by their doctor.
If you visit a toxicologist, it’s essential to assess your heart, kidney, liver functions, cholesterol levels, and overall health before starting any treatment.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career?
Just seeing patients improve. For example, when someone who had hypertension successfully manages their blood pressure, it’s incredibly fulfilling.
Additionally, when patients who have struggled with their weight enter the programme and, after a month or two, show significant improvement and become more productive, it brings me great joy.
How long does a treatment plan last?Â
A treatment plan typically lasts a minimum of one month, with six months being the preferred duration. In some cases, it may extend to one year, depending on the complexity of the situation.
For a one-month plan, we conduct weekly reviews. For a three-month plan, we do weekly reviews during the first month, followed by biweekly reviews in the second and third months.
Where do you see toxicology in the next five to ten years?
In the next five years, medicine will be inseparable from toxicology. This is primarily because we are exposed to toxins every single day. For example, consider the self-care routines that many women share on TikTok in the name of self-care.
You might see someone using over 12 different products in a single day. They could be applying three different types of shower gels, a scrub, soap, and an intimate cleanser. After that, they cleanse their face and use toner, a mask, serums, creams, and moisturisers.
To complicate matters, their makeup routine may include an additional five to ten products. The sourcing and quantity of these products are significant factors. Allow me to explain further.
Many of these products contain preservatives, which are necessary to ensure they remain effective for up to five years on the shelf.
However, when you combine all of those preservatives from multiple products, that’s where the potential for problems arises. Additionally, we sometimes encounter illicit products, particularly in the cosmetic industry.
Is your career financially rewarding?
The minimum fee for teleconsultation is Sh3,000, while for physical consultations, it is Sh5,000. Programme fees vary from Sh12,000 to Sh450,000, depending on the situation’s complexity.
How can someone tell when their body is overloaded with toxins?
The first step is to evaluate your lifestyle. If you suspect that you have been using too many over-the-counter medications, applying numerous beauty products, undergoing chemotherapy, or struggling to lose weight despite your efforts, these could be signs. Additionally, if you have fatty liver disease that isn’t improving, it would be wise to consult a toxicologist.
How do you test for toxins?
To test for toxins in the body, a blood sample is taken and sent to the laboratory. Some tests can provide results in as little as one hour, while others may take 20 days or more.
What common issues are Kenyans facing concerning toxins?
Many Kenyans are suffering from toxins in their liver due to the overuse of over-the-counter medications, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to heavy metals from certain occupations, such as construction work.
Additionally, heavy metals can also enter the body through beauty products. Individuals who use skin-lightening or brightening products for extended periods may be at a higher risk of having mercury in their system.
Are women more prone to these toxins than men, and does age play a role?
When it comes to age, it covers a wide range. There’s a connection between toxicology and autism that I haven’t discussed yet. I see autistic patients who are typically between two and 13 years old.
In terms of beauty or cosmetic toxicology, the affected age group among women is usually between 30 and 60 years old. As for men, their susceptibility can vary because some have been using certain drugs for an extended period. Overall, it’s a complex combination of many factors.
You’ve mentioned toxicology and autism. What is the correlation, and how can an autistic child be exposed to toxins?
It’s important to note that autism is not a disease; it falls under the category of autism spectrum disorders, which are a range of conditions with three common causes. The first cause is genetic, the second is physiological, and the third involves toxins or toxic exposure.
For example, a mother may have been exposed to toxins, such as heavy metals, during pregnancy. This exposure can also occur if the mother drank alcohol while pregnant.
Additionally, a child might be exposed to toxins if their family moved into a new house where construction was taking place while they were still an infant.
Before starting any treatment, it’s essential for individuals with autism to consult a toxicologist. Some patients may experience improved outcomes through a medical detox programme; for instance, they may begin to speak or walk more effectively. However, it’s important to emphasize that this is not a quick fix, nor should it be seen as a substitute for therapy.
However, we have seen improved outcomes once you put this patient on a medical detox programme.
If I have toxins in my body, what will be the signs for me to go get help and what is the treatment plan?
Unfortunately, many signs and symptoms related to toxicity can also be attributed to other conditions. However, we can often make an educated guess based on your lifestyle. For example, if you’ve been working in construction, it’s possible you have been exposed to lead.
To create an effective treatment plan, the first step is to identify which toxins or heavy metals are present in your system. Once we have determined the type and amount of toxin, we can decide on the appropriate course of action.
Some people may need to stop using certain beauty products or reduce their use of them. Others may require medication to help eliminate heavy metals, while some may need to make significant lifestyle changes.
This could include following a specific diet, engaging in juicing therapy, taking certain supplements, and possibly modifying or discontinuing some medications, such as contraceptives. We will work together to tailor a plan that suits your individual needs.
Which cases are the most prevalent and severe?
One of the most concerning issues is poisoning, particularly the spiking of drinks in clubs. In terms of lifestyle-related cases, the most extreme example I’ve encountered—though it wasn’t with a direct patient—involves heavy metals that had begun to damage a patient’s kidneys.
Unfortunately, by the time the damage was recognised, the patient was already undergoing dialysis, making it difficult to reverse the situation.
Talk about spiking, what happens when you take a spiked drink?
When discussing drink spiking, it’s important to understand the risks involved. If you encounter someone who has likely had their drink spiked, the best course of action is to avoid alarming them or attempting first aid at the scene, such as prompting them to vomit or giving them milk. Instead, take them to the nearest hospital as quickly as possible.
In some cases, perpetrators may use a combination of various substances, including hard drugs, which can complicate the situation.
Attempting to provide first aid without proper knowledge may worsen the situation and could even lead to losing the person in need of help. Always prioritise getting them professional medical assistance.
