PATTERN AND HEALTH IMPACT OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT ON RESIDENTS IN ATIBA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OYO STATE

Abstract

This paper examined pattern and health impact of solid waste management on residents in Atiba local government area (LGA) of Oyo State.  A stratified random sampling technique was used to select a sample population of 300 male and female residents in Atiba LGA, in the study.  A structured questionnaire scruitinized by experts in the field of public health and environmental health was used for the study.  A reliability value of 0.87 correlation coefficient was obtained with the use of test-retest method.  Descriptive research survey was adopted.  In all, three research hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 alpha level of significance.  Data collected were analyzed by the use of chi-square (x²) statistical method. The result of the study showed that residents of Atiba LGA adopted similar approach in their practicing of waste management.  It was also revealed that residents in Atiba LGA expressed different opinions with respect to their understanding of health risks associated with unscientific waste management.  Based on these findings, the study recommended that environmental health officers and other health workers should mount regular health education on hazards associated with improper disposal of waste products.  It was also recommended that government should legislate against indiscriminate dumping of waste products.