Breathing challenges and household fuel preference: A study of rural women in Udaipur, Rajasthan

Indoor air pollution from household fuels poses significant health risks, particularly for rural women in low-income settings. This study examines the relationship between household fuel preferences and respiratory health among rural women in Udaipur, Rajasthan. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2022 to July 2023, involving 510 women from the Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC) catchment area. Data were collected through structured interviews, observational assessments, and health record reviews. Results revealed that 58.8% of households relied on biomass fuels (firewood and dung cakes), primarily driven by economic constraints and limited access to cleaner alternatives like LPG, which was used by only 32.5%. Poor ventilation further exacerbated the health risks associated with biomass fuels. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was alarmingly high, with chronic coughing (38.6%) and shortness of breath (34.1%) being the most common. Biomass fuel users reported significantly more severe symptoms compared to LPG users. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve clean fuel access and promote adequate kitchen ventilation. Policy recommendations include enhancing LPG affordability and distribution, integrating ventilation improvements into rural housing schemes, and increasing community awareness about the health risks of biomass fuel use. These measures can substantially reduce the health burden on rural women, contributing to sustainable development goals for health and clean energy.