Influence of air pollutants on ocular health among commercial drivers and road transport workers in Imo State, Nigeria
Date
2024-12
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Federal University of Technology, Owerri
Abstract
Air pollution, resulting from sources like household combustion and high vehicular emissions, significantly contributes to the worldwide burden of disease, with notable pollutants including CO, CO2, NO2, SO2, and Particulate Matter (PM1.0, 2.5). While the respiratory and cardiovascular effects of air pollution are widely studied in Nigeria, a critical gap in knowledge exist regarding the specific ocular health implications for high-risk occupational groups like road transport workers. The statement of the research problem therefore hinged on the high level of ignorance among these workers regarding ocular risks, coupled with the apparent weak enforcement or absence of effective air quality policies in Imo State motor parks, leading to concentrated exposure. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of associated ocular problems, assess the level of awareness, and evaluate the efficacy of preventive strategies employed against air pollutants among road transport workers in Imo State. A cross-sectional survey and observational design was conducted among a sample of 552 park workers (Drivers, Road Transport Workers, and Traders) across five selected motor parks in the three senatorial zones of Imo State. Methodology involved the collection of data via a pre-tested structured questionnaire, comprehensive clinical ocular examinations (including Visual Acuity, Schirmer test, and Tonometry), and the measurement of ambient environmental parameters (NO2, SO2, CO2, PM) at study sites. The results showed a high prevalence of ocular problems (81.2%) among the eyes examined, with pterygium (57.9%) and dry eye syndrome (35.9%) being the most prevalent conditions. Awareness of the risks was high (84.1%), but a significant "awareness-practice gap" was found, as only 31.0% of participants used any preventive measures. A significant association was established between awareness and the practice of prevention (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, the use of eyeglasses (P=0.002) and avoiding smoke areas (P=0.016) were significantly effective in reducing ocular problem occurrence, while sunshades were not. In conclusion, there is a high burden of preventable ocular morbidity among road transport workers, characterized by Pterygium and Dry Eye Syndrome, largely due to a failure to translate high awareness into consistent protective behavior. The recommendations underscore the critical need for targeted public health interventions focusing on translating awareness into specific protective practices, promoting regular eye check-ups, and enforcing stricter environmental regulations in motor parks to mitigate occupational exposure
Description
This dissertation is for the award of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD.) in Public Health, Environmental Health & Safety Option
Keywords
Ocular health, environmental factors, air pollutants, dry eye, pterygium, road transport workers, Department of Public Health
Citation
Nwakamma, G. I. (2024). Influence of air pollutants on ocular health among commercial drivers and road transport workers in Imo State, Nigeria [Unpublished Doctoral Thesis]. Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria