The effect of indoor air pollution from cooking fuels on respiratory diseases in Niger State
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Background of the Study:
Indoor air pollution, primarily resulting from the use of solid fuels for cooking, is a major public health concern in many developing regions. In Niger State, a large segment of the population relies on biomass fuels such as wood, charcoal, and cow dung for cooking, leading to the emission of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These emissions significantly increase the risk of respiratory diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute respiratory infections, and lung cancer (Adewale, 2023).
The use of traditional cooking methods in poorly ventilated kitchens creates an environment where toxic pollutants accumulate, exposing household members—especially women and children—to high concentrations of harmful substances. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to indoor air pollution is linked to a higher incidence of respiratory illnesses, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality (Fatima, 2024). The problem is particularly severe in rural areas of Niger State, where access to cleaner cooking technologies is limited due to economic and infrastructural constraints.
Furthermore, indoor air pollution not only affects respiratory health but also has broader implications for overall well-being, including cardiovascular complications and impaired cognitive development in children. Despite these known risks, there remains a significant gap in region-specific research on the impact of indoor air pollution from cooking fuels on respiratory health outcomes in Niger State. This study seeks to evaluate the levels of indoor air pollution associated with traditional cooking practices and assess their correlation with the prevalence of respiratory diseases. The findings will be critical for informing public health policies and promoting the adoption of cleaner, more sustainable cooking technologies that can reduce health risks and improve quality of life (Musa, 2025).
Statement of the Problem :
In Niger State, reliance on traditional biomass fuels for cooking has resulted in high levels of indoor air pollution, which poses a significant risk to respiratory health. Many households, particularly in rural areas, use wood, charcoal, and other solid fuels in poorly ventilated environments, leading to chronic exposure to toxic pollutants. This exposure is directly linked to an increased incidence of respiratory diseases, including acute respiratory infections and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Bukar, 2023). Despite the known health risks, there is limited empirical data specific to Niger State that quantifies the association between indoor air pollution and respiratory health outcomes.
The persistence of traditional cooking practices is compounded by economic challenges and limited access to cleaner fuels and improved stoves. As a result, vulnerable populations such as women and young children—who spend significant time indoors—are disproportionately affected. The health implications are far-reaching, with increased healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and long-term adverse effects on quality of life. Existing public health interventions have not adequately addressed the underlying causes of indoor air pollution, largely due to insufficient local research and inadequate implementation of clean energy solutions (Yakubu, 2024).
This study seeks to fill the research gap by assessing indoor air pollution levels in households that rely on traditional cooking fuels in Niger State, and by evaluating the resulting respiratory health outcomes. The evidence gathered will be pivotal in guiding policy decisions and public health strategies aimed at promoting cleaner cooking technologies, thereby reducing the burden of respiratory diseases and improving overall health outcomes in the region.
Objectives of the Study:
- To measure indoor air pollution levels in households using traditional cooking fuels in Niger State.
- To examine the relationship between indoor air pollution and respiratory disease prevalence.
- To recommend interventions to promote cleaner cooking technologies and reduce indoor air pollution.
Research Questions:
- What are the levels of indoor air pollution in households using biomass fuels in Niger State?
- How does indoor air pollution correlate with the incidence of respiratory diseases?
- What interventions can effectively reduce indoor air pollution and improve respiratory health?
Research Hypotheses:
- H1: Households using biomass fuels exhibit significantly higher indoor air pollution levels.
- H2: There is a significant association between indoor air pollution and increased respiratory disease incidence.
- H3: Adoption of cleaner cooking technologies will significantly reduce indoor air pollution and related respiratory health risks.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study focuses on rural households in Niger State that utilize traditional cooking fuels. Limitations include potential inaccuracies in pollutant measurement and reliance on self-reported respiratory health data.
Definitions of Terms:
- Indoor Air Pollution: Contamination of the indoor environment by harmful substances emitted from cooking fuels.
- Biomass Fuels: Organic materials such as wood, charcoal, and dung used for cooking.
- Respiratory Diseases: Conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, often exacerbated by pollutant exposure.
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