Impact of Biodegradable Waste Pollution on Microbial Exposure and Health Outcomes Among Children in Urban Communities

Afakwu-Adimoha Hilda Chinwe¹, Richard Otayoor Abalist²

¹ Lecturer, Department of Community Medicine/Public Health, Federal Medical Center Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

² Lecturer, Department of Biological Sciences, Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.  

Abstract

Biodegradable waste pollution poses a significant environmental and public health challenge in urban communities, particularly affecting children. This study assessed the impact of biodegradable waste on microbial exposure and health outcomes among children in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical design was adopted, involving eight sampling sites (WD1–WD8) representing varying levels of waste exposure. Environmental samples (soil, water, and waste) were collected and analyzed for microbial indicators, including total coliforms, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella spp., alongside physicochemical parameters such as Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD). Health data on diarrheal, respiratory, skin, and parasitic infections were obtained from children aged 1–12 years using structured questionnaires and clinical records. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression at p < 0.05. Results showed that sites with very high waste intensity (WD1: 95%; WD2: 90%) recorded the highest microbial loads, with total coliform counts reaching 2.8 × 10⁶ CFU and BOD values of 45.2 mg/L. Correspondingly, diarrhea prevalence was highest at WD1 (68%) and WD2 (64%), compared to 18% at the control site (WD8). Risk ratio analysis indicated that children in highly polluted areas were up to 3.78 times more likely to develop diarrheal diseases. Strong correlations were observed between waste intensity and diarrhea (r = 0.955), while regression analysis showed waste intensity as the strongest predictor (β = 0.512; R² = 0.928). The study concludes that biodegradable waste significantly increases microbial exposure and disease burden among children. It recommends improved waste management systems, enhanced sanitation infrastructure, and public health education to reduce exposure and associated health risks.    

Keywords: Biodegradable waste, Microbial exposure, Child health, Urban pollution, Sanitation, Environmental health

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