Assessing the Effects of Gas Flaring on Electrolyte (Sodium and Potassium) Levels in Pregnant Women: A Study from Bonny Island in the Niger Delta

This study assesses the effect of gas flaring on the sodium and potassium levels of pregnant women from the gas flare host community of Bonny Island, Rivers State, in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Serum sodium (Na) and potassium (K) levels of 60 pregnant women from Bonny Island were obtained and compared to serum sodium and potassium levels of 60 pregnant women from Idah, Kogi State, which served as the control group. Serum sodium levels averaged 138.5±3.2 mmol/L in the exposed group and 139.2±3.0 mmol/L in the control group, while serum potassium levels were 4.1±0.5 mmol/L and 4.2±0.4 mmol/L, respectively. Statistical analysis of the results indicated no significant difference between the serum sodium (p=0.45) and potassium (p=0.52) levels between the two groups, implying no significant disruption of electrolyte homeostasis in pregnant women due to gas flaring. The study, however, recognizes the potential for other health risks associated with exposure to gas flaring regardless of its findings. These results contribute to understanding the biochemical effects of environmental pollutants on maternal health and highlight the need for further research on other biochemical parameters to determine how gas flaring affects the health of pregnant women and unborn babies. This is crucial for healthcare providers and policymakers in regions affected by gas-flaring.