Living conditions and health status of urban slum dwellers in makoko community, Lagos State

Abstract

This study examined living conditions and health status of urban slum dwellers in Makoko community. It considered the influence of sanitary condition, housing type, access to good quality water and solid waste disposal on health status of urban slum dwellers in Makoko community. The study hypothesized that sanitary condition, housing type, access to good quality water and solid waste disposal influence health status of urban slum dwellers. Three theories form the framework of this study, namely, Ernest Burgess‟s concentric zone theory, theory of relative deprivation and Charles Stokes‟ Theory of Slums.

The study employed quantitative and qualitative research methods. The probability sampling method, specifically stratified sampling technique, was used in selecting two hundred and fifty respondents of which two hundred and thirty- four respondents were valid for the quantitative study. In using this sampling technique, different housing units were divided into five strata, namely, plank/bamboo bungalows, cement bungalows, storey buildings, bricks bungalow, and terrace buildings. Data gathered from the study were analyzed using simple percentage and chi-square analysis. Also, the non-probability sampling technique, specifically purposive sampling technique was used to select five respondents for the qualitative study. The results of the quantitative study were corroborated by findings from the qualitative study.

In light of the findings of the study, it was recommended that good quality water should be provided for residents of Makoko community. Also, decent and affordable housing units should be provided for residents of Makoko community. Furthermore, it was recommended that residents of Makoko should be sensitized on ways to ensure hygienic lifestyle through proper waste disposal method and good sanitation.