Factors Related to Respiratory Disorders Among Scrap Collectors at the Final Disposal Site in Sumompo, Manado City

Abstract

Waste management issues, especially in landfills that still apply the open dumping system, can pose serious health risks. At Sumompo Landfill in Manado City, the decomposition of waste generates hazardous gases that may cause respiratory disorders. Scavengers as informal workers who are directly exposed to the landfill environment without adequate protection, become a vulnerable group, commonly experiencing complaints such as coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath. This study aimed to identify factors associated with complaints of respiratory disorders among scavengers at the Sumompo Landfill. This study used an analytic observational design with a cross-sectional approach, conducted from May to July 2025, with a population of 100 peoples selected through accidental sampling. Data were collected through interviews with a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed univariately and bivariately using the chi-square test with a 5% significance level of p<0.05. The results showed that most scavengers had worked for less than 10 years (42%). The majority worked more than 8 hours per day (58%), and a large proportion did not use masks (78%). All respondents reported respiratory disorders complaints, ranging from moderate (54%) to severe (46%) categories. The study concluded that length of service (p = 0,000), working duration (p = 0,017), and the use of personal protective equipment (masks) (p = 0,015) had significant relationship with complaints of respiratory disorders. As preventive measures, scavengers should improve their use of personal protective equipment, especially masks, while relevant institutions need to provide safer waste management systems and better access to protective equipment