JURNAL KESEHATAN LINGKUNGAN

Mitigating Waterborne Health Risks Through Malachite Green Biosorption Using Tea Waste-Derived Material

2025-05-14T19:54:13+07:00

Introduction: Malachite green (MG) is a synthetic dye extensively used in the textile and aquaculture industries, known for its toxicity, bioaccumulation potential, and environmental persistence which poses significant public health risks. This study investigates the biosorption performance of raw tea waste (RTW) and iron-coated tea waste (FeTW) for MG removal as a low-cost and sustainable water treatment solution. Methods: A laboratory-based batch biosorption experiment was conducted under parameters of contact time, biosorbent dosage and initial MG concentration using biosorbents of RTW and FeTW. The MG removal efficiency was quantified using a Hach DR900 spectrophotometer. Functional group characterization was conducted via FTIR spectroscopy, and adsorption behaviours were analysed using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. Results and Discussion: FeTW demonstrated superior performance compared to RTW under all conditions. A maximum removal efficiency of 68.54% was achieved using 0.5g of FeTW at an initial MG concentration of 25mg/L within 60minutes. FTIR analysis revealed enhanced hydroxyl group intensity at 3360cm⁻¹ and the appearance of Fe–O bonds at 560cm⁻¹, confirming successful surface modification. The Langmuir isotherm model best described the biosorption behavior with R² of 0.9901 and maximum biosorption capacity (qm) of 3.12mg/g. The low separation factor (RL) value of 0.00025 indicated highly favorable biosorption. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the potential of FeTW as an eco-friendly biosorbent to reduce human exposure to MG, a known carcinogenic contaminant in water systems. Iron modification significantly enhances the biosorption capacity of tea waste for MG removal and contributes to safer water quality and reduced public health risks.

Saltwater Intrusion Effect on Water Supply Project in Sungai Semerak, Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, Malaysia

2025-05-19T19:30:55+07:00

Introduction: In Kelantan, saltwater intrusion was a problem that worsened the water supply, especially groundwater, which was the main source of water supply. This study was conducted to study the suitability of Sungai Semerak as a site for constructing a water intake station in the Pasir Puteh District to provide an alternative water supply source that previously depended on groundwater. Methods: In this study, three approaches were taken to identify the suitable location. The approaches are the Water Quality Index (WQI) by Malaysia Environmental Department includes six water quality parameters of dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids (TSS) and ammoniacal nitrogen (AN) with additional approach of Stratification of saltwater and Groundwater Quality. Result and Discussion: From the data gathered, the freshwater zone shows WQI was in Class III at 52.31, which is higher than 51.9, the lower limit of Class III , which is suitable for water supply with treatment and suitable for irrigation compared to the saline zone, WQI was 47.08, which is in Class IV. Groundwater quality of pH (5.95), Total Dissolve Solids (251.77 mg/L), Conductivity (416.2μS/cm), Turbidity (88.19 NTU), Calcium (14.54mg/L), Magnesium (6.25mg/L), Sodium (36.41mg/L), Bicarbonate (67.11mg/L), Chloride (26.03mg/L), Sulphate (4.67mg/L), Total Hardness (67.12mg/L) also shows acceptable readings for suitability for drinking water. Conclusion: Therefore, Sungai Semerak was suitable for building a water intake station as it was important in a developing state and country.

Association Between Pesticide Exposure and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Among Female Farmers: A Cross-Sectional Study

2025-05-22T13:39:03+07:00

Introduction: The widespread use of pesticides in agriculture has been linked to an increased risk of diabetes mellitus. Long-term exposure to pesticides can disrupt glucose metabolism, trigger insulin resistance, and raise susceptibility to diabetes mellitus. This study investigates the association between pesticide exposure and the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: This analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design involved 162 female farmers selected by purposive sampling from a population of 2,187, using the Lemeshow formula. Independent variables included work duration, types and frequency of pesticide use, spraying duration and direction, PPE usage, and cholinesterase levels. The dependent variable was type 2 diabetes mellitus. Data were collected through questionnaires, observation, and clinical tests for blood glucose and cholinesterase levels. Logistic regression was performed at 95% CI and α = 0.05. Result and Discussion: The results showed that 69.1% of female farmers exposed to pesticides had diabetes with lower cholinesterase levels as a significant indicator (p<0.001; OR=3.897; 95% CI=2.087-7.277). Factors such as working duration ≥10 years (p=0.010; OR=3.564; 95% CI=1.359-9.346), number of pesticides types (p=0.023; OR=3.370; 95% CI=1.187-9.570), spraying duration (p=0.020; OR=3.083; 95% CI=1.197-7.940), and PPE usage (p=0.007; OR=3.601; 95% CI=1.416-9.159) were associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: Pesticides, particularly organophosphates and carbamates, act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals that impair pancreatic function and increase oxidative stress, contributing to insulin resistance. Female farmers more vulnerable to these effects due to hormonal sensitivity, making gender specific approaches essential. Strict regulations and farmer education are crucial to reduce long-term health risks.

Pesticide Exposure and Hypertension Risk in Indonesian Agricultural Workers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

2025-06-10T16:14:59+07:00

Introduction: Agriculture workers exposed to pesticides are at high risk for hypertension, which is known as a cause of cardiovascular disease worldwide. Due to agricultural relevance and pesticides exposure, pesticide use and hypertension have garnered attention. This study investigated pesticide exposure and hypertension risk. Discussion: In line with the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies published between 2015 and 2024. A total of 14 studies from Indonesia focusing on agriculture were selected, representing a variety of geographic areas and research methods. The pooled analysis revealed a prevalence ratio (PR) of 1.64 (95% CI: 1.35–1.99), indicating that farmers exposed to pesticides had a far higher risk of hypertension than those who were not. Long-term exposure, higher doses of pesticides containing active ingredients of commonly used pesticides, such as chlorpyrifos and profenofos, frequent spraying, improper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), age, smoking, and work-related stress all increased risk. Pesticides can affect cardiovascular control through oxidative stress, neuroendocrine disruption, and endocrine disruption, according to global reports. Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis underscores the significant environmental health risks posed by pesticides exposure, particularly its contribution to hypertension among Indonesian agriculture workers. Prolonged exposure, inadequate use of PPE, and poor safety practices exacerbate these risks. The findings highlight the urgent need for stricter environmental health regulations, the implementation of integrated pest management, and improved education on pesticide safety. These measures are essential to protect agricultural workers and reduce pesticide-related health risks in communities.

Assessment on Microplastic Contamination from Mulching and Non-Mulching Farmland in Selangor, Malaysia

2025-05-14T19:51:35+07:00

Introduction: Emerging environmental contaminants known as microplastics (MPs) have recently attracted a growing amount of attention due to their ubiquitous distribution, high adsorption capability of impurities, high specific surface area, and physiological toxicity, which can remain in the environment for hundreds of years. Thus, this study aimed to characterize microplastics (MPs) and assess their association with varying soil depths and sampling sites, utilizing two distinct plant soil types for comparison. Methods: Soil samples were collected from different depths and various sampling sites within Tanjung Karang, Selangor. The abundance, color, size, shape, and polymer composition of the isolated MPs were analyzed using microscopic techniques and micro-Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Standard experimental protocols were followed, and one-way ANOVA test was conducted using SPSS. Result and Discussion: Mulched farmland had the most MPs abundance, 1650 particles/kg at 0-10 cm. However, non-mulched farmland had the lowest microplastic abundance at 336 particles/kg at 20-30 cm. This indicates that microplastics were substantially greater in mulched soils than in non-mulched soils. The Stereomicroscope Stemi 305, Zeiss, showed that 64% of films possessed the highest morphotypes, black colour of microplastics made up mostly about 59% of the total, and MPs were the most abundant with a size of <500 μm. ATR-FTIR found mostly polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP) polymers in these soils. Also, the abundance of microplastics in both farmlands gradually decreased as the depth of the soil increased. Conclusion: This investigation confirmed that microplastic composition and characteristics vary by agricultural land and soil depth.

Heavy Metals Pollution in Drinking Water Sources: A Case Study from Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Malaysia

2025-05-28T12:43:26+07:00

Introduction: Heavy metal content within drinking water poses significant risks to health and the environment. Given industrial impact on Kulim’s water quality, this study determined the concentrations of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), and nickel (Ni) in various water sources around Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP) and assess associated with chronic heath risks. Methods: We measured these five heavy metals in 30 water samples from tap water, rivers, and ponds, within and around Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP), using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. Non-carcinogenic risk was assessed by calculating Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI), while carcinogenic risk used Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR). Results and Discussion: Mean concentrations averaged between 0.0177 ± 0.0017 mg/L and 0.8652 ± 0.0606 mg/L; nickel showed the highest mean, followed by iron, zinc, manganese, and cadmium. Notably, concentrations of nickel, and in some instances iron and cadmium, exceeded regulatory limits. HQ and HI suggested no immediate adverse health effects from exposure to iron, manganese, and zinc. However, ELCR values for cadmium and nickel surpassed acceptable levels, indicating potential carcinogenic risks from long-term exposure. It is important to note that risk assessment for iron, manganese, and zinc is based on mean concentrations that include proportion of samples below the Limit of Quantification (LOQ), warranting cautious interpretation. Conclusion: This study provides crucial baseline data on heavy metals in KHTP water resources, underscores more investigation and potential remediation strategies to safeguard public and environmental health.

Evaluation of Adulticidal Clorine with Black Sand, White Sand and Silica Sand for Decline Coliform Bacteria

2025-06-12T15:09:29+07:00

Introduction: The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 2.2 billion individuals globally lack access to safely managed drinking water supplies. The development of chlorine diffusers represents a promising intervention to address bacterial contamination, particularly coliform bacteria in water sources. To optimise their efficacy, rigorous analysis of chlorine diffusers’ performance and optimal material combinations is required to ensure a maximum reduction in coliform populations. Methods: The study population comprised all water sources in the Pabelan Kartasura Sukoharjo Village area, with a total sample volume of 720 litres. Subsequently, 100 mL aliquots were collected from each water reservoir using sterilised sampling bottles. Parameters assessed included temperature, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and coliform counts. Instrumentation for physicochemical analysis included thermometers, TDS meters, and digital pH meters, while coliform detection was conducted using the Compact Dry EC method. Each sample was evaluated at four time intervals: 0, 30, 45, and 60 minutes. Results and Discussion: Analysis revealed statistically significant differences in coliform bacterial counts among chlorine diffuser types incorporating silica sand, white sand, and black sand. Conversely, no statistically significant variations were observed for temperature, pH, or TDS across the experimental groups. These findings point out the importance of sand composition in enhancing chlorine diffusers’ antimicrobial efficacy. Conclusion: Chlorine diffusers incorporating diverse sand media demonstrated varying efficacy in reducing coliform bacteria, with black sand exhibiting the most pronounced reduction. This finding suggests that material selection significantly influences the functional performance of chlorine-based water disinfection systems.

A Case Study of Waste Bank Implementation in an Elementary School in Bonang Sub-District, Demak Regency

2025-06-28T14:50:55+07:00

Introduction: The community's behavior, perceptions, and willingness to pay (WTP) are vital in forming and implementing integrated waste management. Thus, zero waste theory advocates the need for research on perceptions, behavior, and WTP for school waste management. This study analyzes school residents' perceptions, behavior, and WTP regarding waste management. Methods: This study used a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study was conducted at SDN Betahwalang, selected purposively due to its active waste bank program. A total of 86 students and 75 school community members were surveyed. Quantitative data were analyzed using crosstabs and the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), while qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders. Results and Discussion: This study used a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. The research was conducted at SDN Betahwalang, purposively selected for its active school waste bank program. The variables measured included students’ socio-economic characteristics, perception, environmental behavior, and willingness to pay for waste bank development. A total of 86 students and 75 school community members were surveyed. Data were analyzed using crosstabs and the Contingent Valuation Method, supported by qualitative insights from in-depth interviews. Conclusion: This study concludes that integrating environmental education through both formal and non-formal approaches effectively improves students’ knowledge, perception, and behavior toward waste management. Furthermore, the school community shows strong support for waste bank development, as indicated by their willingness to pay. These findings highlight the importance of institutional synergy and continuous environmental education in promoting sustainable waste practices in schools.

Analysis of Environmental Risk Factors Associated with Malaria Incidence in Papua, Indonesia

2025-06-12T15:35:31+07:00

Introduction: Papua is the region with the highest malaria burden in Indonesia, accounting for about 84% of the total national malaria cases. The high incidence rate indicates the need for a multidimensional approach, including analysis of environmental determinants. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of environmental risk factors on the incidence of malaria in Papua, Indonesia. Methods: A cross-sectional observational design was used based on secondary data from the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey. The analysis was conducted on 37,987 respondents using Chi-square test and binary logistic regression. The variables analyzed included housing conditions, physical quality of water, wastewater drainage systems, and waste management. Results and Discussion: The results showed that, based on bivariate analysis, four environmental factors were significantly related to malaria incidence (p<0.05). However, in the multivariate analysis, only three variables remained significant, wastewater drainage system (OR=1.203; p<0.001), poor waste management practices (OR=1.103; p<0.016), and housing conditions (OR=0.884; p<0.001). while water quality had no significant effect. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of incorporating environmental management into malaria control strategies, especially in endemic and resource limited regions like Papua, through multisectoral collaboration between health and environmental authorities.

Microplastics in Oreochromis Niloticus: An Abundance Study and Health Risk Assessment Around the Gajah Mungkur Reservoir

2025-06-12T15:26:22+07:00

Introduction: More than 430 million tons of plastic waste are added globally each year, increasing the potential distribution of microplastics, particularly in aquatic environments. Microplastic contamination in the Gajah Mungkur Reservoir is thought to come from nearby textile factories and fish farming using plastic floating nets. This study differs from previous research that only identified microplastics in reservoir water by conducting an individual-based carcinogenic health risk assessment using primary data. This study aims to identify the characteristics of microplastics in Oreochromis niloticus (abundance of particle, shape, color, and polymer type) and assess the carcinogenic risks of the local community. Methods: This quantitative descriptive research used 9 Oreochromis niloticus samples from floating net cages and 30 respondents selected through purposive sampling techniques. Microplastics were identified using a stereomicroscope and FTIR. The Microplastic Carcinogenic Risk (MPCR) formula was applied. The research ran from November 2024 to March 2025. Results and Discussion: Microplastics in Oreochromis niloticus had an average abundance of 0.45 particles/gram, with the highest at 0.87 particles/gram. The estimated daily intake of microplastic particles in respondents shows an average result of 0.007730 particles/day. The average MPCR value of respondents is 1.86×10-6, indicating a carcinogenic risk level according to US EPA guidelines, although still within tolerable limits. Conclusion: The average respondent is at risk of carcinogenic microplastics but still within tolerance limits. Suggestions for the community are not to throw garbage and household waste into the rivers around the reservoir and to reduce single-use plastics.