Koi pla, a traditional Thai dish made with raw fish, spices, and lime, is a beloved delicacy in the Isaan province. However, recent warnings from Thai doctors have highlighted the dangers of this dish. Leading this movement is Dr. Narong Khuntikeo, a liver surgeon who tragically lost his parents to liver cancer believed to be caused by consuming Koi pla.
Koi Pla: Thai Doctors Warn Fish Dish Can Cause Liver Cancer
Despite its seemingly harmless ingredients, the real threat in Koi pla comes from a tiny parasitic flatworm called the liver fluke. This parasite is commonly found in freshwater fish in the Mekong region, including those in Isaan. When humans consume raw or undercooked fish infected with the parasite, they become the final host for the liver fluke, which can lead to serious health issues including liver cancer.
The Dangerous Liver Fluke
Once inside the human body, the liver fluke can cause extensive damage to the liver, leading to inflammation, cirrhosis, and potentially liver cancer. Dr. Khuntikeo has been actively raising awareness about the risks associated with consuming Koi pla, especially in communities where the dish is popular.
Dr. Narong Khuntikeo’s Campaign Against Koi Pla
“It’s a very big health burden around here,” he said. “But nobody knows about this because they die quietly, like leaves falling from a tree.”
Dr. Khuntikeo’s efforts to educate communities and conduct screenings for the parasite have revealed alarming rates of infection in some villages. Early detection is crucial in preventing the progression of the disease and reducing the incidence of liver cancer in these regions.
Detection Is Key
Regular screenings and early detection of liver fluke infections are essential in at-risk populations. Thai authorities have also taken steps to address the issue by implementing health education programs, improving sanitation practices, and enforcing regulations on raw fish dishes.
The Bottom Line
The consumption of Koi pla has been linked to liver cancer due to the presence of the liver fluke parasite. Dr. Narong Khuntikeo’s advocacy work and the government’s initiatives aim to raise awareness and prevent the spread of this deadly infection. Education, sanitation, and regulations play a crucial role in protecting the health of the Thai population.
Sources
- “Thai doctor fights against carcinogenic raw fish dish that killed his parents.” The Guardian. Oliver Holmes and Agence France-Presse. June 28, 2017.
- “Doctors try to put people off fish dish that can cause liver cancer.” Independent. Jessica Ware. June 15, 2015.
- “Toward integrated opisthorchiasis control in Northeast Thailand: The Lawa Project.” NCBI. Banchob Sripa, et al. January 2016.
