Ambient Air Pollution and Kidney-related Non-communicable Diseases in Oil and Gas-Situated Communities in Nigeria: A...

Ambient air pollution (AAP) is an emerging risk factor for kidney disease.

To evaluate the perceived and actual air pollution risk in oil and gas-situated communities and whether long-term exposure to AAP is associated with kidney-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

This was an exploratory mixed methods study. Three focus groups and one individual interview were used to first explore the perception of AAP health risks in one community situated near a petrochemical refinery. The findings informed a survey instrument administered to 1460 participants from four communities situated at varying distances from the refinery. Clinical and laboratory parameters were obtained to determine the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, hypertension (HTN), and obesity. A citizen science inquiry was embedded to monitor air pollutant levels in partnership with community volunteers.

Participants perceived their ambient air was polluted. There was poor knowledge and concern about AAP health risks, which was crowded out by socioeconomic needs. The mean PM2.5, PM10, and volatile organic compounds concentrations exceeded the World Health Organization acceptable limits in all four communities. The overall prevalence of HTN, obesity, CKD, and diabetes was 33.4%. 27.0%, 12.3%, and 6.5% respectively. Proximity to the refinery was significantly associated with CKD and HTN (P ≤ 0.0001). Public perception correlated with actual air pollution in communities near to the refinery than in farther communities.

Air pollution health risk literacy is low and probably contributes to the persistence of air pollution and NCDs in vulnerable communities. A multifaceted and inclusive approach to air pollution and NCD control is required.