Assessment of Parental Knowledge of Clinical Signs and Symptoms among Infants in Oil-polluted Communities of Eleme and Tai, Nigeria

Abstract

Exposure to pollution from crude oil refining is linked to a spectrum of infant health challenges, including observable clinical symptoms. Understanding parental knowledge of these signs is critical for early detection and management. This study evaluated parents' knowledge of clinical signs and environmental symptoms of pollution-related health conditions in infants living in Eleme and Tai LGAs of Rivers State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive study involving 357 parents was conducted using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and inferential tests (t-test and ANOVA) were used to assess knowledge across demographic variables. Respondents showed high awareness of key indicators, including pungent odours (WA = 3.37 in Eleme; 3.23 in Tai), discoloured rainwater, poor soil yield, and noise-related headaches. There was no statistically significant difference in awareness based on gender (p = 0.148), education (p = 0.996), or age (p = 0.325). Knowledge was slightly higher in Tai (mean WA = 3.23) than Eleme (mean WA = 3.18). These findings suggest a strong collective environmental literacy across both communities. Tailored public health messaging and clinical screening programs are recommended to convert awareness into preventive action.