The Horrifying Truth About Disease from Eating Human Flesh
Cannibalism, the act of eating one’s own species, is considered taboo in most cultures around the world. Despite social stigmas or cultural norms, however, it has still occurred throughout human history. Whether for ritualistic purposes or survival, this practice can lead to various health issues, including serious diseases. Here, we delve into the dangers of eating human flesh and the horrifying diseases it can cause.
Kuru Disease and Other Prion Diseases
Kuru disease is a well-known disease caused by prions found in human brains. The disease was prevalent among the Fore people in Papua New Guinea, who practiced cannibalism as a funeral rite. Consumption of infected human brains led to the transmission of prions, which can lead to the degeneration of the brain’s tissue. Incurable and fatal, Kuru disease progressed rapidly, causing insomnia, seizures, and eventually death.
Other prion diseases that can result from cannibalism include Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), variant CJD, and Fatal Familial Insomnia (FFI). CJD, caused by mutated prion protein, can be sporadic or inherited, but it can also result from consuming prion-infected meat. Variant CJD is similarly linked to consuming prion-infected meat, and its symptoms are comparable to Kuru disease’s initial phases – insomnia, confusion, and changes in behavior. FFI, on the other hand, is an extremely rare genetic prion disease that causes complete insomnia and other nervous system-related issues.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial disease that commonly affects the lungs. It can spread through inhaling microscopic droplets released by infected individuals. However, it can also be transmitted through consuming contaminated food or drinks, including human flesh. Initial TB symptoms include coughing, fever, chest pain, and sometimes bloody cough. If left untreated, the bacteria can spread to other body parts, causing organ failures and other critical health conditions.
Hepatitis B and C viruses
Hepatitis B and C viruses are both bloodborne viruses that affect the liver. Transmission of the virus can occur when bodily fluids, including blood and saliva, enter the bloodstream, which can happen during cannibalism. The virus can cause liver inflammation, which can develop into liver cirrhosis and cancer. While both hepatitis B and C can be fatal, hepatitis C is more dangerous due to its ability to remain silent for years before showing any symptoms.
Conclusion
Cannibalism may seem like a sensational topic, but it can cause incredibly harmful diseases, some of which are incurable and inevitably fatal. The human species’ progression and abundance have alleviated the need for cannibalism, as traditional forms of nourishment and modern medicine have provided safe alternatives to consuming one’s own kind. It should always be remembered that the consequences of cannibalism can lead to a quick and terrifying end.
