Health Problems of Solid Waste Collectors in India: A Scoping Review

Abstract Background: The profession of solid waste collection is inherently hazardous, especially to the health of solid waste collectors. Consequently, they face a wide range of health problems including physical, occupational and psychological issues. Aim: The objective of this scoping review is to explore the scientific literature concerned with the physical, occupational and psychological health problems of solid waste collectors in India, primarily in the past two decades. Methods: In accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, a scoping review of the available relevant peer-reviewed scientific literature was performed for comprehensive analysis of the extent of health problems and issues of solid waste collectors in India. Two prominent online databases namely, PubMed and Google Scholar were searched extensively using predefined criteria. Original research papers published in peer-reviewed reputed scientific journals post the year 2000 were screened and selected for this study. A total of 20 scientific research articles concerned with the health problems of solid waste collectors were included in this study. Results: Scoping review of original research articles revealed that 2 – 90 per cent of the solid waste collectors suffered from dermatological health problems, 8.1-95 per cent from respiratory problems, 3.8-33 per cent from different types of ophthalmological health problems, 25-76.6 per cent from musculoskeletal health problems and 4.5-15 per cent from gastrointestinal problems. 3 - 16 per cent solid waste workers were affected by tuberculosis while 2.5-83.3 by viral fever. Among occupational health problems, 43.5-91.7 per cent solid waste collectors faced injuries during work, bruises, cuts and lacerations, 9.6-16.5 per cent were affected by animal bites, more than 70 per cent suffered from injury by sharp objects, 70 per cent of the solid waste collectors suffered from mild to severe depression, 55 per cent of them were affected by mild to severe anxiety, 25 per cent of the solid waste collectors felt constantly under strain, 39.5 per cent felt unhappy and depressed, 40 per cent suffered from loss of sleep and faced loss of concentration. Conclusion: Solid waste collectors in India face a wide range of health problems which are physical, occupational as well as psychological in nature. Review of research revealed that the frequency of occurrence of health problems is higher in solid waste collectors than in rest of population. Targeted health surveillance and greater access to healthcare could help improve the state of health of solid waste collectors. Additionally, they should be provided with first aid kit, safety equipment to guard against animal attacks and regular counseling for psychological well-being.