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Abstract: Introduction: The Intensification of Industrial Activities in the City of Douala is
Accompanied by Strong Urban Growth. This Situation Contributes to a
Deterioration in Water Quality, Particularly Through the Discharge of
Pollutants, Leading to a Cause for Concern About Their Effects on People's
Health. The Aim of This Study is Therefore to Assess the Prevalence of Health
Problems Among Residents Living Around Industrial Zones. Methodology: A Cross-sectional and Analytical Study Was Conducted With Residents of the Main Industrial Areas of Douala From January 2024 to July 2024 (7 Months). Every Inhabitant of This Zone Aged 21 Was Included in This Study. The Data Were Collected Using a Structured Questionnaire That Covered Socio-demographic Information, Water Use Habits and Medical History. Analysis Was Carried Out Using Excel 2015 and Spss 20 Software to Explore Associations Between the Variables Studied. Results: The Study Included 1,023 Participants (That is, 489 Women and 534 Men),
With a Predominance (49.9%) of Young Adults Ranging From 20-30 Years. Around
80% of the Participants Used Alternative Water Sources, Often of Uncertain
Quality. The Most Frequently Reported Health Problems Were Digestive Disorders
(92.1%; P<0.001), Joint Pains (86.1%; P<0.001), Skin Ailments (77.6%;
P<0.001) and Water-borne Diseases (72.6%; P<0.001), With Higher Rates in
Households Located Near Industries. The Results Show a Correlation Between the
Use of Potentially Polluted Water and the Appearance of Certain Pathologies.
The Proximity of Homes to Industrial Sites, Combined With Dependence on
Alternative Water Sources, Could Contribute to Prolonged Exposure to
Contaminants. These Observations Are Consistent With Other Studies Conducted in
Similar Contexts. Conclusion: This Study Shows a Link Between ‘industrial Water Pollution’ and the Health of People Living Near Industrial Zones in Douala. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.51505/ijmshr.2025.9312 |
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