CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The impact of environmental pollution on respiratory health in urban areas of Nigeria presents a significant public health concern amidst rapid urbanization and industrialization. With Nigeria experiencing one of the highest rates of urbanization globally, urban areas face mounting challenges related to air quality, water contamination, and waste management, all of which contribute to environmental pollution. In particular, respiratory health is vulnerable to the adverse effects of pollution due to increased exposure to pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds. This introduction aims to explore the multifaceted impact of environmental pollution on respiratory health in urban Nigerian settings, shedding light on the epidemiological, physiological, and socio-economic dimensions of this issue. Oluwole Oguntoke et al. (2017).
The prevalence of respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory infections, has been on the rise in urban areas of Nigeria, correlating with escalating levels of environmental pollution. Studies have indicated a clear association between exposure to air pollutants and the exacerbation of respiratory symptoms, as well as the development of respiratory conditions. Moreover, vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are disproportionately affected by environmental pollution, exacerbating health inequalities within urban communities. Omowumi I. Adetona et al. (2017).
Furthermore, the intricate relationship between environmental pollution and respiratory health in urban Nigeria is underscored by socio-economic factors, including inadequate access to healthcare services, poor housing conditions, and limited awareness of pollution-related health risks. These challenges compound the burden of respiratory diseases, placing additional strain on already fragile healthcare systems and impeding socio-economic development. Addressing environmental pollution and its impact on respiratory health requires a comprehensive approach encompassing policy interventions, public health initiatives, and community engagement efforts to mitigate pollution sources, improve air quality monitoring, and enhance respiratory health services. Ayodele Jegede et al. (2019).Top of Form
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1.2 Statement of the Problem
In urban areas of Nigeria, the impact of environmental pollution on respiratory health has emerged as a significant public health concern. The rapid urbanization coupled with industrialization has led to the proliferation of pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds in the air. These pollutants, emitted from vehicular exhaust, industrial activities, and biomass burning, penetrate deep into the respiratory system, causing inflammation, irritation, and exacerbating respiratory conditions. Furthermore, inadequate waste management practices and deforestation contribute to the degradation of air quality, exacerbating the health risks faced by urban dwellers. The prevalence of respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory infections is on the rise, posing a significant burden on healthcare systems and diminishing the quality of life for individuals living in these areas. Oluwole Oguntoke et al. (2017).
Addressing the impact of environmental pollution on respiratory health in urban areas of Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach. Efforts should focus on implementing stringent regulations to control industrial emissions, promoting cleaner energy sources, improving waste management practices, and enhancing public transportation systems to reduce vehicular emissions. Additionally, raising awareness among the population about the health risks associated with environmental pollution and advocating for sustainable urban planning and development strategies are crucial steps towards mitigating the adverse effects on respiratory health. Collaborative efforts involving government agencies, healthcare professionals, environmentalists, and community stakeholders are essential to safeguarding the respiratory well-being of urban residents in Nigeria. Omowumi I. Adetona et al. (2017).Top of Form
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine Impact of Environmental Pollution on Respiratory Health in Urban Areas in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. To assess the types and levels of environmental pollutants in major Nigerian urban areas.
- 2. To investigate the association between exposure to environmental pollution and respiratory health outcomes in urban Nigerians.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies and interventions aimed at reducing air pollution and its health impacts in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What are the primary sources and types of air pollutants (e.g., particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen oxides) present in major Nigerian urban centers (e.g., Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano)?
- Is there a correlation between levels of specific air pollutants and the prevalence of respiratory illnesses (e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia) in urban populations?
- What are the current policies and regulations in place to control air pollution in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship between Environmental Pollution and Respiratory Health in Urban Areas in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Public Health sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Port-Harcourt, Nigeria. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
REFERENCES
Oluwole Oguntoke et al. (2017). Ambient Air Quality and Respiratory Health of Children in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment.
Omowumi I. Adetona et al. (2017). Indoor Air Pollution Exposures and Respiratory Health Risks in Nigeria. Science of the Total Environment.
Ayodele Jegede et al. (2019). Outdoor Air Pollution and Respiratory Health Outcomes Among Children in Lagos, Nigeria. BMC Public Health.
Abiodun M. Lawal et al. (2020). Socio-Economic Inequalities in Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution and Respiratory Health Outcomes in Urban Nigeria. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
Olusoji Adeyi et al. (2018). Environmental Pollution and Respiratory Health: Perspectives from Urban Residents in Nigeria. Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering.
