Background of the Study
Urban flooding is an increasingly frequent occurrence in many developing regions, primarily driven by rapid urbanization, inadequate drainage systems, and the exacerbating effects of climate change. In Kwara State, urban flooding has emerged as a significant environmental hazard with far-reaching implications for public health. The expansion of urban areas, combined with unplanned development and poor infrastructure, has led to frequent flood events that disrupt daily life, damage property, and expose populations to various health risks (Nwankwo, 2023). Floodwaters often carry contaminants such as industrial waste, sewage, and agricultural runoff, which contribute to outbreaks of waterborne diseases including cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.
The health impacts of urban flooding extend beyond the immediate risks of injury and disease outbreaks. Prolonged exposure to flood conditions can lead to chronic respiratory issues due to mold and damp environments, increased mental health challenges from the trauma of displacement, and a surge in vector-borne diseases. Vulnerable populations, including low-income residents, children, and the elderly, are particularly at risk during flood events. Although various flood management and mitigation strategies have been implemented by local authorities, the frequency and intensity of floods in urban Kwara State continue to pose significant challenges to public health (Ibrahim, 2024).
This study aims to comprehensively examine the effects of urban flooding on public health in Kwara State by correlating flood event data with health outcomes. It will assess the effectiveness of existing flood management practices and identify gaps in public health preparedness. The integration of environmental data with healthcare statistics is expected to yield insights into the direct and indirect impacts of flooding on community health. Ultimately, the findings will contribute to the development of more effective, integrated policies that enhance both flood management and public health resilience (Adamu, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Urban flooding in Kwara State poses severe public health challenges that have not been fully addressed by current mitigation strategies. Frequent flood events lead to water contamination, disrupt healthcare services, and result in an increased incidence of waterborne and respiratory diseases. Despite various flood management initiatives, many urban areas remain highly vulnerable, with inadequate infrastructure and poorly coordinated emergency responses contributing to the problem(Chukwu, 2023).
A significant gap exists in understanding how urban flooding directly correlates with specific health outcomes. The lack of comprehensive data on the public health effects of flooding hinders the development of targeted interventions that could alleviate the burden on healthcare systems. Vulnerable groups, particularly residents of low-income settlements, are disproportionately affected by these events, facing heightened risks of illness and injury. This deficiency in integrated flood management and public health strategies has resulted in recurrent health crises following flood events (Okeke, 2024).
This study seeks to fill this gap by providing a detailed analysis of the relationship between urban flooding and public health outcomes in Kwara State. It will examine flood frequency, intensity, and the subsequent health impacts, while also evaluating the effectiveness of existing flood management measures. The outcomes are expected to inform more robust, integrated strategies that can better protect communities and reduce the health risks associated with urban flooding.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on urban centers in Kwara State, utilizing environmental and health data. Limitations include data inconsistencies, seasonal variations, and challenges in isolating the effects of flooding from other environmental factors.
Definitions of Terms
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Chapter One: Introduction
Abstract
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