SILENT KILLERS: INVESTIGATING THE LONG-TERM RESPIRATORY EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD GENERATOR FUMES IN NIGERIAN SUBURBS

Abstract

Frequent power outages in Nigeria have led to a widespread reliance on petrol- and diesel-powered household generators, particularly in suburban communities. This study investigates the long-term respiratory health effects associated with exposure to generator fumes in selected Nigerian suburbs. A mixed-methods cross-sectional design was employed, involving 420 survey participants and spirometry tests, as well as qualitative interviews and focus group discussions. Findings revealed that over 85% of participants used generators more than four times weekly, with a significant number placing generators in or adjacent to living areas. High exposure was significantly associated with increased prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms—chronic cough (53.1%), shortness of breath (43.0%), and wheezing (32.1%)—and with abnormal spirometry results indicating obstructive (39.7%) and restrictive (23.7%) lung function patterns. Qualitative insights highlighted low awareness of health risks and economic dependence on generators. The study concludes that prolonged generator fume exposure poses a critical public health risk and calls for urgent policy, educational, and infrastructural interventions to mitigate these effects.