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

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% ofthe 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 enterprisesand 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 fuelscompared to those using processed fuels. Biomass fuels are thus a major public health threat to workers in this sub-sector, and urgent interventionis required. Conclusion: The study recommends a switch from biomass fuels to processed fuels to protect the health of the workers.Key words: Indoor air pollution, biomass fuels, health, respiratory, worker

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