Question

Describe the health problems associated with improper waste disposal.

Answer 1

• Waste that is not properly managed will have adverse effect on human health.
  
• Household waste like excreta spreads infectious diseases.
  
• The organic wastes attract a number of pathogenic microorganisms that spread infectious diseases.
  
• Chronic diseases attack the waste workers and the rag pickers being the most vulnerable.
  
• Exposure to hazardous chemical gases leads to chemical poisoning if the body.
  
• Co-disposal of industrial hazardous waste with municipal waste can expose people to chemical and radioactive hazards.
  
• Some of the diseases include skin and blood infections, eye and respiratory infections due to exposure of man to dust and gases.
  
• Chronic diseases to incinerator operators like cancer.
  
• Bone and muscle disorders in handling containers.
  
• Occupational diseases includes brucellosis, leptospirosis, anthrax, psittacosis, tetanus, fungal infections etc.