Prevalence of Respiratory Symptoms And Associated Factor Among Street Sweepers In Addis Abeba, Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract Background: Respiratory symptoms are manifestations of respiratory problems that are developed as the result of occupational exposures. Respiratory symptoms including cough, phlegm, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest pain are manifestations of respiratory problems which are mainly evolved as the result of occupational exposures. They are more prevalent in developing countries, where occupational health and safety issues are less emphasized. In Ethiopia there are very few studies conducted on the respiratory health problems of road cleaners. Objective: The study was conducted to assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and associated factors among street sweepers in Addis Ababa. Methods: Community based Cross sectional study was conducted from March 15 –jun15, 2024. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data was collect through interviewer administered structured questionnaire adapted from British Medical Research Council. SPSS and Microsoft Excel applications was used for data entry, analysis and result presentation. Bivariate regression analysis was computed to select candidate variables for multivariate logistic regression analysis. Multivariate logistic regression model were fitted by using variables that had association (p < 0.25) with the dependent variable in bivariate analysis. Result From the total 365 study participants 361 were included in this study which makes the response rate 98.9%. The respondents were assessed for the presence of one or more of respiratory symptoms: cough and/or phlegm and/or wheezing and/or chest illnesses and/or shortness of breath. The study indicates the prevalence of respiratory symptom was 45.4% Conclusion and recommendation This study found that respiratory symptom was prevalent among street sweepers in AA. Use of face mask, OHS training, work experience, history of age 35-44 and energy used at home was major contributing factors for respiratory symptom to occur. There was poor awareness on occupational health and safety among street sweepers. Face mask and occupational health and safety training should be provided by the health office. Individuals who had history of past illness should get health information during enrollment. Key words street sweepers, Respiratory symptom, personal protective equpement , occupational exposure to dust.