Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Perceptions of Village Residents on the Health Risks Posed by Kadhodeki Dumpsite in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Studies show that the health risks posed by dumpsites are significant especially when the area used for dumping is easily accessible. Children, the immunocompromised, the mentally challenged individuals are specifically vulnerable to the physical, ecological and chemical dangers posed by wastes. This study sought to assess the knowledge, attitude and perceptions of the residents of Kadhodeki village on the health risks posed by the Kadhodeki dumpsite. Using households as units of sampling, a descriptive cross sectional survey was carried out in June 2012. Random data were collected using a face-to face researcher administered structured questionnaire where 323 participants were interviewed. Chi square was used to determine the association between the different variables. Findings indicate that residents posses a significantly low knowledge and a positive attitude (χ2 (1) = 224.03, p < 0.01; χ2 (1) = 8.697, p < 0.01).There were however no differences in risk perceptions. Participant’s age, duration one had lived in the village and their level of education, were proxy measures of knowledge, attitude and perception. Odds ratio analysis indicates that age and duration did not influence participant’s knowledge, attitude or perceptions. However, education accounted for a non significant 28% variation in respondents’ attitude towards the health risks of the dumpsite (OR= 1.282; CI 0.828- 1.997). Adequate education on the other hand significantly accounted for 67% variation in respondents’ health risk perception (OR= 1.671; CI 1.304-2.140). From the findings of this study, the ministry of Health is recommended to come up with health education programmes for the general population on the dangers of uncontrolled waste disposal sites.