Abstract
M.A. (Public Health)
Background: Asthma is the most common chronic lung disease worldwide which creates breathing difficulties that range from mild to life-threatening. The strongest risk factors for developing asthma are inhaled substances and particles. There is strong evidence that air pollution exacerbates asthma morbidity and mortality and some evidence that it may affect asthma prevalence. Several studies have investigated the effects of pollution emitted by building materials such as asbestos on indoor air quality. However, few studies have been aimed at demonstrating the association between indoor air pollution and asthma. Objective: This study sought to determine if indoor air pollution in Orange Farm homes is a major contributor to respiratory health, particularly asthma amongst the residents. Methods: An Analytical cross study of 452 conveniently selected asthmatic adult patients in Stretford community healthcare center. Only patients residing in either Orange Farm or Lenasia and surrounding areas were considered for the study. We relied on medical practitioners to identify asthma cases when they visited the clinic either for follow up visits or initial diagnosis. Once the potential participants were identified, they were contacted and invited to take part in the study using a structured questionnaire. Results: Of the study participants, 72.6% (n=328) were from Orange Farm and 27.4% (n=124) were from Lenasia and its surroundings. This study revealed that the risk factors for the development of asthma included being over the age of 50years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.38, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.2.-0.73) compared to those aged below 30 years, living in a flat (AOR 0.25, 95% CI 0.11-0.56) compared to those living in brick houses and using wood/coal stove/imbawula, fireplace, and gas or paraffin heater as a heating system [AOR = 3.71% CI (1.48 – 9.29); AOR = 3.52% CI (1.59 – 7.73) and AOR = 2.41% CI (1.33 – 4.36)] compared to using an electric heater. Conclusion: Strengthening of air pollution education and policies to reduce harmful indoor air pollution in Orange Farm, Lenasia and surrounding areas is needed. This will enable the government’s efforts is to improve public health through service delivery programs and access to clean energy sources especially electricity.