Prevalence and Pattern of Occupational Diseases among Quarry Workers in Akamkpa, Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the prevalence and pattern of occupational diseases among quarry workers in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross sectional survey design was adopted, using structured questionnaires administered to 359 quarry workers selected through multistage sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and One Way ANOVA. Findings revealed a high prevalence of respiratory and related occupational health problems among workers. Catarrh was the most reported condition at 167 respondents (46.5 percent), followed by cough at 60 (16.7 percent), nasal infection at 46 (12.8 percent), sinusitis at 29 (8.1 percent), hearing impairment at 10 (2.8 percent), and fungal dermatitis at 32 (8.9 percent). Recurrent exposure was common, with over 153 workers reporting repeated catarrh episodes. Blasters and stone breakers recorded the highest disease burden, with mean prevalence score of 3.62 compared to drillers at 2.21. ANOVA results showed a significant difference in prevalence across job categories (F = 12.86, p = 0.000). The study concluded that occupational diseases are highly prevalent among quarry workers, especially those in high exposure roles. It recommended strict enforcement of safety measures, provision of protective equipment, and regular health surveillance to reduce occupational health risks in quarry environments.