Prevalence and risk factors of respiratory problems among solid waste collectors in the Philippines

Abstract

In most developing countries such as the Philippines, solid waste collection is done manually, exposing the solid waste collectors to health risks. The study determined the prevalence of respiratory health problems, one of the most common health issue among these workers. The study was done at Location XYZ, and found that the prevalence of respiratory problems among solid waste collectors is at 19%. Binary logistic regression was used and found 13 significant factors contributing to the incidence results: the age of the worker, his height (m), his body mass index (BMI), number of hours of sleep, drinking frequency, number of alcoholic drinks consumed, personal protective equipment (PPE) frequency of use, decision latitude, social support, management feedback, discrimination, years in service, and whether or not he went through a job training. Based on the statistically significant factors, ergonomic interventions were recommended to help mitigate the health problems of solid waste collectors.