Investigating toxic aluminium levels in haemodialysis patients after “Day Zero” drought in Cape Town, South Africa

Introduction

Aluminium is the most abundant metallic element in the earth’s crust and can be consumed through water, medications, and by using metallic cooking utensils. Aluminium levels become a concern when they are above biological exposure limits and can present with multiple clinical complications. When patients have chronic kidney disease and are on haemodialysis, impaired aluminium excretion can lead to its accumulation. Significantly elevated serum aluminium levels were noted in patients with chronic kidney disease (stage 5) on haemodialysis at Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa. This coincided with one of the worst water crises ever experienced in this metropolitan area, with extreme water restrictions being imposed and alternative water sources being accessed.