Association between the use of biomass fuels on respiratory health of workers in food catering enterprises in Nairobi Kenya

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Date
2013-05-06
Authors
Keraka, M.
Ochieng, Carolyne
Engelbrecht, Jacobus
Hongoro, Charles
Journal Title
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Abstract
Introduction: Indoor air pollution from biomass fuel use has been found to be responsible for more than 1.6 million annual deaths and 2.7% of the global burden of disease. This makes it the second biggest environmental contributor to ill health, behind unsafe water and sanitation. Methods: The main objective of this study was to investigate if there was any association between use of bio-fuels in food catering enterprises and respiratory health of the workers. A cross-sectional design was employed, and data collected using Qualitative and quantitative techniques. Results: The study found significantly higher prevalence of respiratory health outcomes among respondents in enterprises using biomass fuels compared to those using processed fuels. Biomass fuels are thus a major public health threat to workers in this sub-sector, and urgent intervention is required. Conclusion: The study recommends a switch from biomass fuels to processed fuels to protect the health of the workers
Description
doi:10.11604/pamj.2013.15.12.1831
Keywords
Indoor air pollution, Biomass fuels, Health, Respiratory, Workers
Citation
The Pan African Medical Journal. 2013;15:12