The California Department of Public Health has issued a warning to consumers advising them not to purchase or use a hemorrhoid ointment from Vietnam that was found to contain dangerous levels of lead and was linked to a death in Northern California.
A public health advisory declared that California consumers should not use Cao Bôi Trĩ Cây Thầu Dầu, an ointment for hemorrhoids that is produced in Vietnam and available for purchase on social media and by private vendors at public events like swap meets.
According to CDPH, the product was found to contain 4% lead, which was described by health officials as “an incredibly high and dangerous level,” who added that the ointment was linked to a lead poisoning death in Sacramento County.
Reports from KTLA sister station KTXL indicate that the victim allegedly bought Cao Bôi Trĩ Cây Thầu Dầu on Facebook and had it shipped to her by a relative in Vietnam.
“Consumers should be extremely cautious using unregulated health products available online or through social media,” said CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer, Dr. Tomás J. Aragón. “Many of these products overpromise to cure or relieve ailments and are not tested for safety. Putting these products on or in your body can have serious consequences.”
State health officials are working with county health departments to raise awareness within their Vietnamese communities. Federal health officials have also been notified, CDPH said.
Anyone who is using or has used Cao Bôi Trĩ Cây Thầu Dầu is urged to stop immediately, see a healthcare provider and request a blood lead test as soon as possible, health officials said.
Consumers are advised to put the product in a plastic bag and call 510-620-3620 or email toxoutbreak@cdph.ca.gov for more information.
CDPH has established a web page with resources for individuals with questions regarding the public health advisory. Information is available in English and Vietnamese.