Editor's Choice
Main Category: Dermatology
Also Included In: Public Health
Article Date: 20 Apr 2012 - 10:00 PDT
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The Treasury's plans to introduce Royal Mint nickel-plated coins, in order to save costs, are examined in a letter published in BMJ(British Medical Journal). The letter, by skin experts from St. John's Institute of Dermatology and the Royal Hallamshire Hospital, states that there has been no evaluation of the new coinage.
According to the experts, HM Treasury officials and the Royal Mint have given no consideration to the financial implications to the NHS, the potential health expenses causes by skin disease, or other costs to the taxpayer.
Furthermore, the Royal Mint has verified that they have not conducted any studies or evaluations oh how the coins may affect individuals allergic to nickle and that they have "no information on nickel-release from the new coins."
According to the Treasury's Swedish counterparts, Swedish Riksbank, nickel-plated coins "pose unacceptable risks to health." In addition, they state that they will "not be using nickel containing alloys in their coinage."
The researchers state that even though the Royal Mint may have abided by all the rules regarding introduction of new coinage, there is insufficient evidence as to whether individuals with dermatitis (hand eczema) or nickle contact allergies will not suffer.
The experts urge that Sir John Beddington, Chief Scientific Adviser to HM Government, give his opinion on the matter. In addition, they state that public records should show that "competent risk assessment has formally considered the concerns."
Written By Grace Rattue
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today
Danielle T Greenblatt, SpR, David J Gawkrodger and Ian R White
BMJ, April 2012, doi: 10.1136/bmj.e2730 Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:
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23 Apr. 2012.
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'Will Nickel-Plated Coins Affect Skin?'
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