Analysis Of Carbon Monoxide Exposure And Health Complaints To Traders In USU Tax (Pajus) Medan City

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Introduction

The bustling streets of Pajus, a popular market among students in Medan City, are a hub of activity where various daily needs are easily accessible. However, the high density of motor vehicle traffic in the area poses a significant threat to the health of traders who work there. The exhaust fumes from these vehicles contain harmful gases, including carbon monoxide (CO), which can have severe consequences on human health. In this study, we aim to analyze the levels of carbon monoxide in the ambient air of Pajus and identify the health complaints experienced by traders who work in the area.

Background

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, such as gasoline and diesel. It is a potent neurotoxin that can cause a range of health problems, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death in high concentrations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has established a threshold limit value (TLV) of 25 parts per million (ppm) for carbon monoxide in the workplace, which is equivalent to 25 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m³).

In Indonesia, the Government Regulation No. 41 of 1999 sets a quality standard for ambient air, which includes a limit of 1.7 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m³) for carbon monoxide. However, the levels of carbon monoxide in Pajus have been reported to be higher than this threshold, posing a significant risk to the health of traders who work in the area.

Methodology

This study used a descriptive research method involving 40 traders who work in Pajus. The traders were selected through a purposive sampling method, which involved selecting participants based on their relevance to the study. The data collection process involved the use of a questionnaire to gather information on the traders' demographic characteristics, working hours, and health complaints.

The carbon monoxide levels in the ambient air of Pajus were measured using a gas detector, which was placed at three different points in the market. The measurements were taken over a period of one week, and the results were analyzed to determine the average carbon monoxide levels in the area.

Results

The results of this study showed that the majority of traders were aged between 20-30 years (60%), working for 5-10 hours per day (72.5%), and had worked in Pajus for less than one year (45%). The highest carbon monoxide content measured at point III reached 1973.6 μg/nm³, which is still within the threshold of the quality standard in accordance with Government Regulation No. 41 of 1999.

However, despite the measured CO content still meeting the standards, the long-term impact of the carbon monoxide exposure needs to be considered, especially for traders who are exposed to dangerous gas every day. The results of this study revealed that 77.5% of traders experienced health complaints, including dizziness, headache, chest pain, blurred vision, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and even fainting.

Discussion

The results of this study highlight the importance of taking preventive steps to protect the health of traders in Pajus. The use of masks to reduce the effect of carbon monoxide exposure is one of the suggestions submitted in this study. In addition, there is a need for collective awareness about the importance of air quality around the market and efforts from the manager to reduce vehicle pollution in the area.

The findings of this study also emphasize the need for further research to explore the long-term relationship between carbon monoxide exposure and the health of traders. This is because the health effects of carbon monoxide exposure can be cumulative, and prolonged exposure can lead to serious health problems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of taking preventive steps to protect the health of traders in Pajus. The use of masks to reduce the effect of carbon monoxide exposure is one of the suggestions submitted in this study. In addition, there is a need for collective awareness about the importance of air quality around the market and efforts from the manager to reduce vehicle pollution in the area.

By raising awareness and taking appropriate precautions, it is hoped that the health of traders in Pajus can be maintained and their quality of life can be improved. Further research is also needed to explore the long-term relationship between carbon monoxide exposure and the health of traders.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  1. Use of masks: The use of masks to reduce the effect of carbon monoxide exposure is recommended.
  2. Collective awareness: There is a need for collective awareness about the importance of air quality around the market.
  3. Efforts to reduce vehicle pollution: Efforts from the manager to reduce vehicle pollution in the area are recommended.
  4. Further research: Further research is needed to explore the long-term relationship between carbon monoxide exposure and the health of traders.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including:

  1. Small sample size: The sample size of this study is small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
  2. Short duration of data collection: The data collection process was conducted over a short period, which may not capture the full range of health effects associated with carbon monoxide exposure.
  3. Limited measurement of carbon monoxide levels: The carbon monoxide levels were measured at only three points in the market, which may not capture the full range of carbon monoxide levels in the area.

Future Research Directions

Future research should aim to explore the long-term relationship between carbon monoxide exposure and the health of traders. This can be achieved through a longitudinal study that follows a cohort of traders over a period of time. Additionally, further research should aim to investigate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing carbon monoxide exposure, such as the use of masks and the implementation of policies to reduce vehicle pollution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of taking preventive steps to protect the health of traders in Pajus. The use of masks to reduce the effect of carbon monoxide exposure is one of the suggestions submitted in this study. In addition, there is a need for collective awareness about the importance of air quality around the market and efforts from the manager to reduce vehicle pollution in the area.

By raising awareness and taking appropriate precautions, it is hoped that the health of traders in Pajus can be maintained and their quality of life can be improved. Further research is also needed to explore the long-term relationship between carbon monoxide exposure and the health of traders.

Q: What is carbon monoxide and how does it affect human health?

A: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, such as gasoline and diesel. It is a potent neurotoxin that can cause a range of health problems, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death in high concentrations.

Q: What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

A: The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Blurred vision
  • Fainting

Q: How can I protect myself from carbon monoxide exposure?

A: To protect yourself from carbon monoxide exposure, you can:

  • Use a carbon monoxide detector in your home or workplace
  • Avoid idling your car in an enclosed space
  • Use a mask when working in areas with high levels of carbon monoxide
  • Avoid smoking in enclosed spaces
  • Get regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your health

Q: What should I do if I suspect I have been exposed to carbon monoxide?

A: If you suspect you have been exposed to carbon monoxide, you should:

  • Get fresh air immediately
  • Seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms
  • Report the incident to your employer or local authorities
  • Take steps to prevent future exposure, such as using a carbon monoxide detector or avoiding idling your car in an enclosed space

Q: Can carbon monoxide exposure cause long-term health problems?

A: Yes, carbon monoxide exposure can cause long-term health problems, including:

  • Neurological damage
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Respiratory problems
  • Cancer

Q: How can I reduce my risk of carbon monoxide exposure in Pajus?

A: To reduce your risk of carbon monoxide exposure in Pajus, you can:

  • Use a mask when working in areas with high levels of carbon monoxide
  • Avoid idling your car in an enclosed space
  • Use a carbon monoxide detector in your home or workplace
  • Get regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your health
  • Report any concerns about carbon monoxide exposure to your employer or local authorities

Q: What is being done to reduce carbon monoxide exposure in Pajus?

A: Efforts are being made to reduce carbon monoxide exposure in Pajus, including:

  • Implementing policies to reduce vehicle pollution
  • Providing education and training on carbon monoxide safety
  • Installing carbon monoxide detectors in homes and workplaces
  • Conducting regular monitoring of carbon monoxide levels in the area

Q: How can I get involved in reducing carbon monoxide exposure in Pajus?

A: You can get involved in reducing carbon monoxide exposure in Pajus by:

  • Participating in community outreach and education programs
  • Reporting concerns about carbon monoxide exposure to your employer or local authorities
  • Supporting policies and initiatives aimed at reducing vehicle pollution
  • Using a mask when working in areas with high levels of carbon monoxide
  • Getting regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your health