Market analysis of some mercury-containing products and their ...

Health care professionals indicated mercury-free thermometer availability and
cost were barriers to adoption. Of surveyed doctors, almost four of five (78.5%) said
availability of mercury-free thermometers in Senegal is a problem. Meanwhile, mer-
cury-containing thermometers are readily available and widely used in all pharmacies
and hospitals. The alternatives are rarely stocked or used because of their relatively
high cost compared to the mercury containing ones. Costs for clinical thermometer according
to the staff ranges from 500 to 1,200 XOF, averaged 850 XOF for mercurycontaining
thermometers and from 1,000 to 7,000 XOF, averaged 4,000 XOF for mercury-free
thermometers.
Health care professionals preferred working with the mercury-free alternative.
They cited the quick results, the indicator signal, and safety issues as their major reasons
for their preference. Many commented on safety, citing mercury thermometers
relative potential for breakage, the high numbers that did break, and the dangers this
posed to patients. According to the staff, mercury-free clinical thermometers give faster
results (30 seconds compared to about ten minutes for the mercury-containing thermometers
to reach an end point) this allowed them to consult more patients. Those
who preferred working with mercury-containing thermometers also indicated they
trusted them to give more reliable results.
Some staff faulted mercury-free thermometer reliability. Staff faulted mercury-free
thermometers because of 1) high sensitivity and 2) false results (i.e. older people with
high blood pressure). Sensitivity was felt to influence the result. Also cited was the
mercury-free thermometers’ need for batteries, which can become discharged and lead
to false readings.
3.2.1.2 Senegalese Household Thermometer Survey
Participants. The Consumer Thermometer Survey was done with twelve (12) pharmacies
and two (2) medical equipment shops. Medical equipment shops sell only medical
supplies. (Noted from surveyor, in Senegal medical supplies are generally sold only at
pharmacies and medical shops and not at other retail outlets).
Mercury-free thermometers were widely available in stores. Most pharmacies and
medical shops (57%) sold both mercury-containing thermometers and mercury-free
thermometers; the rest sold only mercury-containing thermometers.
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