THE IMPACT OF COAL COMBUSTION ON THE RESPIRATORY HEALTH OF COMMUNITIES RESIDING IN THE SURROUNDING AREA OF PT. LL IN ACEH BESAR REGENCY

Abstract

Burning coal produces dangerous air pollutants such as fine particles (PM10 and PM2.5), sulfur dioxide
(SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) that can cause respiratory disorders, increase
the risk of respiratory diseases, and contribute to the rise in morbidity and mortality rates due to respiratory
illnesses. In the vicinity of PT LL in Aceh Besar Regency, where coal burning takes place, residents living
in the area are potentially exposed to detrimental health effects. The aim of this research is to determine
the relationship between air quality and respiratory health in the vicinity of PT LL in Aceh Besar Regency.
This study is a descriptive analytical study with a cross-sectional design. The population of this study
consisted of 5,220 individuals, and the sample size was 132 respondents who met the inclusion criteria.
Data analysis was conducted using univariate, bivariate, and logistic regression tests for the bivariate
stage. The results of the study indicate that several environmental factors such as the use of mosquito coils,
residential location, and house ventilation significantly influence the occurrence of Acute Respiratory Tract
Infections (ARTIs) among the residents in the vicinity of PT LL in Aceh Besar Regency. The use of mosquito
coils increases the likelihood of ARTIs by 2.7 times. Residing in Lhoknga area increases the likelihood of
ARTIs by 2.1 times compared to residing in Simpang Tiga area. Respondents who have inadequate house
ventilation have a 2.3 times higher likelihood of experiencing ARTIs compared to those with sufficient
ventilation. However, there is no significant influence between bedroom occupancy density, indoor lighting,
roof/ceiling condition, indoor humidity, indoor temperature, and the occurrence of ARTIs among the
residents