Health status assessment of people adjacent to temporary waste disposal sites in Khulna city, Bangladesh

Abstract

Despite rapid population growth, urbanization, and economic development in Bangladesh, there is a lack of evidence to measure the impact of dumpsites on human health and the environment. This study sought to assess the health impact of temporary disposal sites in Khulna city on residents living nearby. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaire surveys surrounding the dumpsite areas. Altogether 180 households were surveyed by random sampling approach from >50 m (close to the dumpsites, CD) and 50–300 m radius (away from the dumpsites, AD) of the dumpsite. The participants were mostly employed with low income (<US$185.54 per month) and living more than 10 years in the community. This study found that the main concern for residents in both communities was the odor emanating from the dumpsites, with 74% of respondents identifying this as their primary concern. Approximately 18% of respondents claimed that the smoke from burning waste had the most severe impact on their health. The most common health problems reported by participants were dysentery, diarrhea, pulmonary diseases, asthma, and allergies. Diarrhea was reported by most of the respondents in both communities, such as 32.1% in the CD community and 22.8% in the AD community. Whereas chest-related illness (16.98%) and asthma (11.32%) were reported more frequently in the CD community. Participants living close to the dumpsites were found to be statistically significant victims of health problems, water pollution and unpleasant odor. However, the results did not show a significant effect of proximity to the dumpsite on causing waterborne and airborne diseases among those with higher incomes and better employment. This study suggests conducting a more comprehensive investigation in the study area to unravel the specific impacts of dumpsites on human health. The city corporation authority should follow sustainable municipal solid waste management practices and consider green energy production from waste using cutting-edge technologies.