A Cross-Sectional Study of Indoor and Outdoor Air Pollution Exposure in Al-Diwaniyah Governorate, Iraq

Saleh, Ali Saheb; Jasim, Alaa Kadhim; Hantoosh, Alaa Shakir

doi:10.36582/ksj.2026.171422.1051

A Cross-Sectional Study of Indoor and Outdoor Air Pollution Exposure in Al-Diwaniyah Governorate, Iraq

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Ali Saheb Saleh ¹

Alaa Kadhim Jasim ²

Alaa Shakir Hantoosh ²

¹ Southern Technical University/ College of Health and Medical Techniques/ Department of Community Health Techniques, Basrah/ Iraq

² Southern Technical University/ College of Health and Medical Techniques, Basrah/ Iraq

https://doi.org/10.36582/ksj.2026.171422.1051

Abstract

Air pollution constitutes a prominent cause of global health complications. As outdoor pollutants continually infiltrate indoor environments, it is imperative to investigate this relationship to identify and mitigate risks associated with human exposure. Find the relationship between exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution in the governorate of Al-Diwaniyah, Iraq. A descriptive cross-sectional study with 400 participants (aged 18-65 years) was carried out in six healthcare facilities in the Al-Diwaniyah Governorate. It performed from 15 September 2025 until the end of January 2026. It employs non-random convenient sampling by using a structured questionnaire. Most participants were female (50.7%), widowed (26.5%), lived in urban areas (66.8%), and had a primary school certificate (21.5%). The indoor pollution score was 56.0% as smoking inside, using gas/kerosene stoves, and electric generators, while the outdoor pollution score was 51.5%, such as busy main roads, open burning, and agricultural land. This score was associated with some socio-demographic characteristics, including marital status, education level, income level, and socioeconomic status (SES) (P-value <0.05). The study found a mutual influence between indoor and outdoor pollution exposure, with continuous infiltration of outdoor pollutants into indoor environments.

Keywords

Air Quality

Exposure Levels

Indoor Air Pollution

Outdoor Air Pollution

Socioeconomic Status