An investigation conducted by New Brunswick province has determined that environmental substances such as herbicides and heavy metals are unlikely to be the cause of the reported neurological symptoms in hundreds of individuals. Dr. Yves Léger, the chief medical officer of health, presented the final report on the inquiry into 222 cases of “undiagnosed neurological illness” on Friday.
The investigation was initiated in response to concerns raised in 2023 by Moncton neurologist Dr. Alier Marrero regarding elevated levels of herbicides glyphosate and glufosinate, as well as various metals like aluminum, arsenic, lead, and mercury in some patients. According to Léger, the findings of the report do not indicate that exposure to specific environmental substances was a significant factor in the illness affecting most or all of the studied patients.
Although the report does not pinpoint the exact cause of the illness, which includes symptoms ranging from muscle spasms to memory loss, it suggests that the patients likely have diagnosable conditions based on previous reports and scientific studies. Autopsies of nine cases revealed known conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
One of Marrero’s patients, Sarah Nesbitt, expressed mixed feelings about the report, stating that many patients are disheartened by the lack of clarity on the root cause of their illness. Despite limitations in the data collected by Marrero, the province’s analysis indicated that most results for herbicides and heavy metals fell within normal ranges.
The report offers three recommendations for moving forward, including providing support for patients to receive a second assessment and diagnosis, conducting targeted testing for substances when necessary, and implementing a formal process for reviewing cases of undiagnosed neurological illness by two specialists. Léger emphasized the importance of implementing these recommendations promptly.
The provincial government has requested the Public Health Agency of Canada to review individual patient data for any concerning patterns or trends. Patients are hopeful that this review will provide more insights into the clusters of cases and environmental factors possibly contributing to the illness.
Regarding Marrero’s professional conduct and potential disciplinary actions, inquiries have been directed to relevant regulatory bodies for further review. Both the College of Physicians and Surgeons and Vitalité Health Network are expected to assess the report’s recommendations and determine any necessary actions.
Patient advocate Nesbitt reiterated support for Marrero and emphasized the focus should be on patient care rather than blaming the doctor. Marrero did not respond to requests for comments.
