Abstract

Author:
Nafiu Zakari, Maryam Maisalati, Ibrahim kabir Abdullahi, Victoria Yakubu, Ijanu Emmanuel Madu

Doi: 10.26480/jhcdc.02.2024.41.44

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Diapers are classified as hazardous waste; improper use and disposal of diapers can have immediate or long-term negative health effects. The study examined the nature of the use of baby diapers among mothers in some areas in Dutse Local Government, Jigawa State. A structured questionnaire was used in three purposely selected areas of Godiya Miyyetti, Takur Adua and Gida Dubu where 120 questionnaires were distributed to households purposively. This is to identify the nature of the use of disposable baby diapers and its implications on the environment and health. It was found that over 85% of the respondents use baby diapers on their children. while the used diapers are indiscriminately disposed of in an open dump space. The average household spending on diapers ranges between ₦1000 and above more than ₦2000 per month. The most common diaper health problems are rashes, red skin, swelling, irritation, fungal infection of the genital areas and vaginitis as a result of prolonged use. Disposable baby diapers are popular among mothers as they find comfort in using them and the number is likely to increase with the increasing number of working class mothers in these areas. The study recommends that manufacturers should find ways to produce more environmentally and health-friendly diapers, while mothers should be using these diapers with precaution on their children.