Indoor Air Pollution in Rural Settings in Plateau State Nigeria

Abstract

Background." Indoor air pollution consists of toxic gases or particles that can harm people ’s health/These pollutants can build up rapidly indoors to levels much higher than those usuallyfound outdoors. This study therefore seeks to determine the magnitude ofindoor pollution in Plateau State and its eflects. Methods: The study design used was cross sectional. Using the simple random technique, Plateau State was selected by balloting and likewise the two local governments and the districts, respectively. A sample size of 5 00 was used according to a study carried out in Delta State, Nigeria, where 98% of the population uses solid fuel as a source of cookin g and heating. Results: Majority of the respondents, (4 7. 40%) use firewood as fuel for cooking and minority, (1.00%), cooking gas. Most (50. 60%) are farmers Three hundred and fifty eight (71. 60%), of the respondents cough and majority, (78. 06%), usefirewood as a source of fuel. Majority, four hundred and sixty two (92. 40%) of the respondents did not experience headaches with fuel for cooking and thirty foul; ( 6. 80%) of the respondents did not have red eyes with the use of the various sources of fuel for cooking. Conclusion." Indoor air pollution is a major public health hazard, especially in the rural settings. It may be responsible for a similar proportion ofthe global burden of disease and it is necessary to keep in mind the close relationship between poverty and dependence on polluting fuels. Socioeconomic development should be the core effort to achieve healthier household environments.