Kenyans spending thousands treating respiratory diseases – UoN study

Kenyans spending thousands treating respiratory diseases – UoN study

Kenyans spend up to Sh16,000 treating respiratory diseases caused by air pollutants from vehicle emissions, a new study says.

The respiratory diseases include asthma, irritating coughs, and chronic illnesses such as lung cancer that develop in the long run.

The study presented on Thursday was conducted by the University of Nairobi Enterprises and Services Limited (UNES) on Fuel Economy Labeling, and Febate study for Motor Vehicles.

It highlights that the prevalence of respiratory diseases due to air pollution still remains high, especially among children.

Speaking during the presentation, Prof James Nyang’aya from UoN’s Mechanical Engineering department noted the cost of treatment varies.

Most tests and treatments range from Sh500 to Sh7,000, depending on the duration and facility.

“This should be of concern to all of us,” the professor said.

The study also highlighted the need for the government to control the importation of motorcycles for PSV use in the country.

There are over 100,000 motorcycles operating in the country currently. Researchers say the ‘boda bodas’ are emitting high levels of CO2, which is affecting the environment.

“We should remember that motorcycles are using old systems that were rendered obsolete in motor vehicles and they have a lot of emissions that are hazardous in the long run.”

The study recommends that the government should set standards on imported motorcycles to reduce their negative impact on the environment

Source: The Star