A study has revealed that ingredients of 'erectile dysfunction medication' were detected in the Han River. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Midam] A study has revealed that residual components of 'erectile dysfunction medication' were detected in the Han River, a source of drinking water. The research team urged the government to establish countermeasures, stating that the effects of these components on the human body are unknown.
On the 13th, Professor Kim Hyunwook's research team at the University of Seoul published a paper titled "Contribution of sewage to occurrence of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors in natural water."
According to the paper, components of erectile dysfunction medication, a pharmaceutical substance, were found in the Han River. It was identified that these components are not removed even after passing through sewage treatment facilities. This is the first time that erectile dysfunction medication components have been detected in a river.
Professor Kim's research team collected river water samples from two areas, Jungnangcheon in northern Seoul and Tancheon in southern Seoul, from April 21 to April 27, 2018, and compared and analyzed the changes in components over a week.
The investigation found erectile dysfunction medication components in both Jungnangcheon and Tancheon. In particular, the average concentration of these components detected in Tancheon (84 ng/L) was higher than in Jungnangcheon (71 ng/L). In both areas, concentrations measured on weekends were significantly higher than on weekdays, with Friday night showing the highest levels.
Regarding this, Professor Kim said, "More erectile dysfunction medication components were found in areas densely populated with entertainment facilities." He added, "The problem is that we do not know what effects the residual erectile dysfunction medication components in the river may have on our bodies or whether they pose any risks. It is necessary for government agencies such as the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety to prepare countermeasures."
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