Background of the Study
Air pollution is a major environmental health hazard that contributes significantly to respiratory diseases worldwide. The WHO (2024) estimates that air pollution is responsible for approximately 7 million deaths annually, with a large proportion of these occurring in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide are linked to respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia (Eze et al., 2023).
Sokoto State, located in Nigeria’s arid northern region, is particularly vulnerable to air pollution due to a combination of factors, including desert dust storms, biomass fuel use for cooking, and vehicular emissions (Ahmed & Bello, 2024). The state experiences high levels of respiratory diseases, particularly among children and the elderly, raising concerns about the health impact of air pollution.
Several studies have highlighted the link between air pollution and respiratory health in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for stricter environmental policies (Okonkwo et al., 2023). However, there is limited statistical analysis of the specific relationship between air pollution levels and respiratory diseases in Sokoto State. This study aims to bridge this gap by evaluating the statistical association between air pollution exposure and respiratory disease prevalence.
Statement of the Problem
Respiratory diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Sokoto State, with many cases linked to poor air quality. Despite growing evidence on the harmful effects of air pollution, there is inadequate research quantifying its impact on respiratory health in the state (Ahmed & Bello, 2024).
Several communities in Sokoto rely on biomass fuels for cooking, leading to indoor air pollution, which significantly increases the risk of respiratory diseases, especially in women and children. Additionally, desertification and climate change contribute to high levels of airborne particulate matter, exacerbating health risks (Okonkwo et al., 2023).
This study aims to statistically evaluate the relationship between air pollution and respiratory diseases in Sokoto State, providing data-driven insights to inform public health interventions and environmental policies.
Objectives of the Study
1. To analyze air pollution levels and respiratory disease prevalence in Sokoto State.
2. To examine the statistical relationship between air pollution exposure and respiratory diseases in Sokoto State.
3. To evaluate the effectiveness of public health interventions aimed at reducing respiratory diseases caused by air pollution.
Research Questions
1. What are the levels of air pollution in Sokoto State, and how do they vary across different regions?
2. What is the statistical relationship between air pollution exposure and respiratory diseases in Sokoto State?
3. How effective are current public health measures in mitigating respiratory diseases linked to air pollution in Sokoto State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Higher air pollution levels are significantly associated with increased cases of respiratory diseases in Sokoto State.
2. Exposure to biomass fuel emissions contributes significantly to respiratory diseases in Sokoto State.
3. Public health interventions have not significantly reduced the incidence of respiratory diseases caused by air pollution in Sokoto State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the statistical evaluation of air pollution levels and respiratory disease prevalence in Sokoto State. Data will be collected from environmental monitoring agencies, hospital records, and government health reports.
Limitations may include challenges in obtaining accurate air quality data, variations in disease reporting, and potential confounding factors such as lifestyle and occupational exposures.
Definitions of Terms
• Air Pollution: The presence of harmful substances in the air, including particulate matter and toxic gases.
• Respiratory Diseases: Medical conditions affecting the lungs and airways, such as asthma, pneumonia, and COPD.
• Particulate Matter (PM2.5, PM10): Fine airborne particles that can penetrate the respiratory system and cause health problems.
• Biomass Fuel: Organic materials like wood, charcoal, and animal dung used for cooking and heating, producing indoor air pollution.
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