A Cross-Sectional Study to Evaluate Respiratory Symptoms Associated With Exposure to Biological Risks in Informal Waste Pickers in Colombia.

OBJECTIVE

This study, the first of its kind in Colombia, aimed to investigate the relationship between respiratory symptoms and exposure to biological risks among informal waste pickers.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 179 informal waste pickers in Bogotá and nearby municipalities, using the ATS-DLD-78-A1 respiratory symptoms questionnaire and ERBIO risk assessment tool. Nonprobabilistic sampling was used, and data were analyzed with chi-squared tests and binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

The most reported respiratory symptoms were phlegm (18.4%), wheezing (18.4%), and cough (16.8%). Not having social security status was significantly associated with respiratory symptoms (P = 0.033), with a prevalence ratio of 1.07 (95% confidence interval: 1.25-1.98). Waste pickers rated waste facility conditions very poor.

CONCLUSIONS

Informal Colombian waste pickers show a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms. Poor working conditions and lack of adequate social security significantly impact their respiratory health.