A review on manganese and its effect on health and distribution in selected African countries

Manganese (Mn), an essential trace element, is important in various biochemical and physiological processes such as proper growth and development, digestion, immune response, energy metabolism, homeostasis, reproduction, and defense against oxidative stress through the enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) in mitochondria of body cells. This review highlights the biological role and effects of manganese on human health as well as health condition associated with manganese. Furthermore, it discusses Mn distribution among people in Nigeria, Ghana and Egypt taking into cognizant the Mn status of food with a view of assessing their health status with respect to Mn. A daily intake of Mn that is insufficient is linked to a number of negative health effects, including reduced fertility, impaired bone formation, generalized growth impairment, and altered lipid, protein and carbohydrate metabolism. However, there are proposed strategy to mitigate Mn induced neurotoxicity. This review reveals there is insufficient data on Mn content of food consumed, drinking water and daily manganese intake of individuals including children in African countries like Nigeria, Ghana and Egypt. Available data reveals most of the popularly consumed food analyzed contains sufficient quantity of Mn and may provide the recommended daily intake (RDI) if the food items are adequately combined in their diet in these regions. Therefore, it is important to emphasize the need to evaluate the Mn content of food consumed, drinking water and daily intake of Mn in Nigeria, Ghana and Egypt.