GIS Aided Intervention Options for Prevention of Water-Borne Diseases in Poor Urban Neighborhood of Rawalpindi City

An investigation was probed to unravel health–hygiene issues related to altered environment in urban poor neighborhood. Using survey-based questionnaire data, explanatory and response variables were analyzed by logistic... [ view full abstract ]

An investigation was probed to unravel health–hygiene issues related to altered environment in urban poor neighborhood. Using survey-based questionnaire data, explanatory and response variables were analyzed by logistic regression which revealed 61% of surveyed population (n=964) has environmental health risks that are attributed to poor sanitation (OR=1.71, 95% CI = 1.24–2.36) and unsafe drinking water (OR=1.49, 95% CI = 1.08–2.05). The GIS aided predictors has explained influence of landscape on poor sanitation due to sewage flow from posh localities placed on elevated ground, towards densely populated poor neighborhoods. The latter areas were further characterized by people vulnerable to incidence of diarrhea (OR=1.73, 95% CI = 1.14–2.42), and malaria (OR=2.59; 95% CI = 1.76–3.91) owing to landscape features as they were low-lying areas and geographically natural receivers of wastewater. Female population, especially age groups between 10–23 years were most affected by water related diseases. Our findings indicate a high level of dissatisfaction in surveyed population regarding their living environment. Based on GIS mapping, we have identified potential risk-spots in Rawalpindi city where standing water may cause considerable population exposure to mosquitoes. To overcome health risks, geographical aspects and topographic features can be useful attributes to seek GIS based solutions to avoid standing water in city. We conclude that poor sanitation coupled with unsafe drinking water is emerging public health challenge in the study area. Failure of government to respond adequately to this situation is the prime cause of growing distrust among poor neighborhood dwellers. Provisions of safe drinking water supply and improved sanitation at selected spots is proposed through mapping of area to prevent an outbreak of both diarrhea and malaria, which could be an imminent health risk upon the onset of monsoon season.