Ecohealth Research for Mitigating Health Risks of Stone Crushing and Quarrying, India

Abstract

This chapter discusses the results of a qualitative study, supported by air-quality measures and baseline health assessments in stone quarrying and crushing (SQC) areas in India. This ecosystem approach to health was used to design and implement participatory processes that would lead to action by diverse stakeholders to improve the health and social conditions of the communities dependent on SQC units. The study site included 13 stone-crushing units in the Tikamgarh district and 2 villages. Almost half of the people sampled had a low body mass index. Distribution of hypertension among non-smoking men was significantly higher among SQC workers than among workers in other sectors. Pulmonary function tests revealed that the distribution of respiratory impairment in women was significantly higher than in men despite the fact that a much higher proportion of men were smokers and were employed in SQCs. This suggests that occupational exposure to dust is not the primary source of lung impairment in this group. Other factors, such as household air pollution from use of biomass fuels, may be important contributing factors. Most households (close to 90%) rely on biomass fuels. Findings of these assessments describe poor rural communities in Tikamgarh facing challenges with their livelihoods and health conditions. This innovation of ecosystem research led to the successful engagement of SQC unit owners and the workers to work together to reduce a substantial health problem in the industry. The project was also successful in its ability to generate multistakeholder action, accomplish what was intended, and garner ownership and participation by an array of actors, while building in flexibility to adapt over time.