Impact of Criteria Air Pollutants on Respiratory Health: A Case Study of Kano Metropolis
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Abstract
Air pollution is a significant public health concern in urban environments worldwide. This paper investigates the relationship between Criteria Air Pollutants (CAPs) and respiratory health outcomes in the Kano metropolis. Using Aeroqual Portable Monitor S500 V6 ENV and HoldPeak Aerosol Mass Monitor, ambient concentrations of CAPs were measured at 34 randomly sampled locations monthly for
12 months. Additionally, medical records on lung cancer, asthma, upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were collected from the four public specialist hospitals in the study area. The data were analysed using a stepwise multiple regression model. Results revealed that the prevalence of asthma significantly correlated (R2=0.92, p<0.05) with PM2.5. The COPD was significantly influenced (R2=0.84, p<0.05) by CO and O3, and the occurrence of pneumonia by NO2 (R2=0.700, p<0.05). Likewise, cases of URTIs were associated (R2=0.890, p<0.05) with PM2.5 and SO2 and lung cancer was significantly linked (R2=0.967, p<0.05) to PM2.5. This underscores the critical need for air quality interventions in the Kano metropolis to mitigate the adverse health impacts of pollution. The paper advocates for the enactment of public health policy initiatives aimed at reducing pollutant levels to prevent respiratory illnesses and improve overall community health.
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