CONSEQUENCES OF NOXIOUS ODORS: A PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERN
Keywords:
Offensive odors; Public health; Environmental pollution; Respiratory symptoms; Community nursingAbstract
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46296/gt.v9i17.0377
Abstract
Introduction: Noxious odors constitute a largely invisible environmental and health problem, capable of affecting the physical, emotional, and social well-being of exposed communities. Objective: To analyze the exposure of the population of the Rayito de Luz neighborhood in Machala, Ecuador, to harmful odors related to an asphalt production plant, as well as their possible health effects. Methodology: A quantitative, descriptive, field, and cross-sectional study was conducted using structured surveys administered to 209 residents regularly exposed to the problem. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, considering the frequency, intensity, duration, and offensiveness of the odor, as well as perceived symptoms. Results: The results showed that 65.1% perceived the odor daily, 81.8% rated it as strong or very strong, 46.4% indicated a duration greater than 12 hours, and 77.0% classified it as offensive or very offensive. Discussion: Ocular, nasal, respiratory, and cutaneous symptoms, as well as headaches and emotional responses such as stress and fatigue, were also reported. Conclusion: It is concluded that persistent exposure to noxious odors represents a public health problem that requires environmental monitoring, health follow-up, and community nursing intervention.
Keywords: Offensive odors; Public health; Environmental pollution; Respiratory symptoms; Community nursing.
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