Health Risks AssociatedWith Air Pollution: Public Perception In Kano, NorthWestern Nigeria.

Abstract

Setting: This study examined public perception in Kano metropolis, north-western Nigeria about air pollution.Objectives: To determine the awareness and perception of the public in Kano metropolis about common causes of air pollution; associated health risks; ways of control and roles of stakeholders in its control.Methods: using a descriptive cross-sectional design 335 eligible adults were studied using pretested, semi structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires. Data were analysed using Epi info version 3.5.1 statistical software.Results: Majority of the respondents (40.0%) correctly described air pollution. Industrial emission (83.6%), exhaust fumes (74.0%) dusts (68.7%) were perceived as the most common causes of air pollution. Major perceived health effects of air pollution were respiratory problems (100.0%) and eye irritation (65.2%). Industrial workers and residents of industrial areas were perceived to be most at risk of the deleterious effects of air pollution. Most of the respondents (89.6%) believed air pollution should be controlled and 61.0% believed that its control is the combined responsibility of government and the public; while 26.3% believed that only the government was responsible. Environmental sanitation (73.1%) and good town planning (69.0%) were identified as the major ways of controlling air pollution. Nearly half of the respondents (49.0%) described the air they breathe as unclean; and 60.0% were willing to pay extra levy for clean air in Kano.Conclusion: Majority of the public in Kano have a fair awareness of air pollution, the health risks associated with it and the control measures. However a significant percentage wrongly perceived that its control is the sole responsibility of the government.Key words: Public perception; air pollution; health risks