Human health impacts caused by harmful odors in the area surrounding the asphalt plant
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70577/5ghzgk60Keywords:
Asphalt, Odorants, Air Pollutants, Environmental Health, Volatile Organic Compounds.Abstract
Exposure to noxious odors from industrial activities is an environmental problem that can affect the health and well-being of nearby communities. The objective of this research was to evaluate the level of knowledge among the population living near the asphalt plant regarding the potential health effects of noxious odors and to identify the presence of symptoms associated with continuous exposure to organic pollutants. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional environmental epidemiological study was conducted in the Rayito de Luz sector of Machala, Ecuador. The sample consisted of 209 residents selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected through a previously validated survey administered during home visits. The results showed that 99% of respondents believed that exposure to strong odors could affect their health, while 93.3% did not adopt protective measures. 47.8% of the population perceived the odors as offensive or very offensive, with the highest concentration in blocks 1-2. Compared to apples 3-4, apples 1-2 showed a higher frequency of daily cough (29.2% vs. 10.5%), skin itching (30.6% vs. 14.4%), skin irritation (21.5% vs. 10.5%), eye itching (22.5% vs. 12.9%), and rhinorrhea (12.0% vs. 3.8%), with significant differences in several variables (p<0.05). It is concluded that apples with higher perceived exposure presented greater symptoms and a lower level of knowledge about the associated risks.
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