The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Self-Reported Respiratory and Other Health Symptoms among Street Vendors in Gaborone, Botswana

Abstract

Background: Air pollution is a serious public health concern, killing an estimated 800,000 people annually in developing and developed nations. In urban areas, traffic is one of the most significant sources of hazardous exhaust pollutants. Street vendors are often exposed to air pollutants as a result of their proximity to busy roads and intersections where vehicle emissions are high. Street vendors form an integral part of urban life globally as they provide convenience, affordable goods, and services to the general public. Aim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with respiratory and other health symptoms among street vendors in Gaborone, Botswana. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to randomly selected street vendors. The questionnaire gathered information on demographic characteristics and respiratory and other health symptoms among street vendors. Data was analysed using logistic regression. Results: About 392 street vendors participated in the study, with 71% females. The mean age (M±SD) of the respondents was 46±13 years, with an age range of 25–66 years. About 46%) and 38% attained senior and junior secondary school certificates, respectively and 78%) worked for >8 hours/day. Coughing, headache and dizziness were reported by 89%, 62% and 58% of respondents respectively. Female vendors were at increased risk of wheezes (Odds Ratio (OR): 3.12, 95% Confidence Intervals (CI):1.24-7.85) and headaches (OR: 4.61, 95% CI: 2.02-10.54) when compared to males. Increasing age and working for >5 days/week were significantly associated with respiratory and other health symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion and wheezes. Tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption predisposed street vendors to nasal congestion (OR: 4.34, 95% CI: 1.28-14.72) and shortness of breath (OR: 3.70, 95% CI: 1.29-10.65), respectively. Physical exercise provided a protective effect against chest tightness (OR: 0.133, 95% CI: 0.03-0.06) and dizziness (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.15-0.35). Conclusion: Street vendors reported a high prevalence of respiratory and related health symptoms. Factors such as increasing age, tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption have been associated with respiratory and related health symptoms among street vendors. Large scale research that quantifies TRAP pollutants and health symptoms is needed to inform policy development.