Health Risks Due to Exposure Nitrate (NO3) and Ammonia (NH3) in Local Communities Final Disposal of Waste in Makassar City

This study aims to evaluate the health risks associated with exposure to nitrate and ammonia among communities living near the Tamangapa Final Disposal Site in Makassar City.The primary objective is to assess the health impacts of contaminated well water used as a drinking water source.The research method used a cross-sectional study with an environmental health risk analysis approach, involving measurements of nitrate and ammonia concentrations in well water and interviews with 76 respondents.Sampling was conducted using purposive sampling, targeting residents near the TPA who rely on well water for daily needs.The results reveal that 27 out of 38 well water samples exceeded safe nitrate limits, while 20 samples exceeded safe ammonia limits.Target Hazard Quotient analysis indicates significant health risks, particularly among adults (THQ > 1).Long-term projections suggest escalating health risks.High exposure frequency exacerbates these health impacts.In conclusion, nitrate and ammonia exposure through well water poses serious health threats, especially to children and adults.Risk management strategies such as water quality monitoring, public education, and advanced water treatment technologies are urgently needed.The study underscores the importance of stricter waste management policies and interventions to safeguard community health near landfill sites.