Aflatoxin exposure in pregnant women in Ghana.

Aflatoxicosis has been associated with primary hepatocellular cancer, infertility, malnutrition and growth retardation. It is a commonly seen in areas where maize and groundnuts are contaminated by the Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus. These fungi grow in hot and humid environments and poor drying of cereals. The fungal agents produce mycotoxins, principally, aflatoxins AFB1, AFG1, AFB2 and AFG2, which when ingested results in aflatoxicosis. Maize is a common cereal used in staple diet in Ghana.