Respiratory Symptoms and Dermatological Conditions in Municipal Solid Waste Workers in Tema: The Case of Zoomlion Ghana Limited

Abstract

Background: In rapidly urbanizing cities of developing countries such as Ghana, the quantity of solid waste (SW) generated from various activities have increased over the years, and managing municipal solid waste (MSW) has become both an important economic activity as well as an issue of public health concern due to its associated health hazards. Although some studies have reported decreased pulmonary function and an increased prevalence of certain respiratory symptoms, there is still very little information on the magnitude of the adverse effects such exposures have on municipal solid waste workers in Ghana, with regards to respiratory health and dermatological (skin) condition. Objective: The main objective of this study was to assess the respiratory health and dermatological conditions in municipal solid waste workers of Zoomlion, Ghana Limited in the Tema. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from among 105 workers of the Tema District Office of Zoomlion, Ghana Limited. The respiratory health and dermatological conditions of the different categories of workers; sweepers, collectors, transporters and administrative staff who sometimes serve as field supervisors were assessed using questionnaires, direct skin examination and spirometry. Occupational related respiratory problems and dermatological present at the study time or during a 3-month recall period were noted. Statistical analysis was done in STATA software version 13 (Stata Corps, College Station). Results: There was a higher prevalence of the common respiratory symptoms such a colds (85.2%) and prolonged or repeated sneezing (81.5%) among sweepers compared to the administrative and support staff (58.8% and 61.8% respectively). Also, pulmonary function (PF) was reduced amongst sweepers and collectors compared to the administrative and support staff. Lower pulmonary function indices; FVC (2.6±0.75) and FEV1 (2.07±0.43), which indicate poor respiratory health were lowest among sweepers. The duration of employment did not significantly affect (PF) indices (FVC and FEV1). The overall prevalence of dermatological conditions amongst MSWWs was 60%. Conclusion: MSWWs (collectors, sweepers and transporters) have increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms, reduced pulmonary function and higher prevalence of dermatological conditions compared to the administrative and support staff. Keywords: Municipal solid waste workers; respiratory symptoms; dermatological conditions; spirometry.