Sanitation Practices and Its Implications on the Health of Market Women in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State: An Analysis.

This research investigates the sanitation practices and its implications on the health of market women in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A sample population of 200 respondents from three different markets, namely Akpanandem, Etuk, and Anua markets, was investigated. Findings revealed alarming gaps in sanitation infrastructure and practices within these markets. Only 30% of respondents in Akpanandem reported access to clean water within the marketplace, while access to proper toilet facilities was reported by 45% in Akpanandem and 10% in Etuk market. Majority of respondents admitted to defecating inside their shops in plastic bags, posing significant health risks, particularly in food-selling establishments. Moreover, all respondents engaged in open waste disposal practices. Poor awareness and adherence to hand hygiene guidelines were evident, with only 30% in Akpanandem and 15% in Etuk reporting washing hands with soap and clean water before handling food. Notably, 50% of respondents reported experiencing diarrhea in the past three months, indicating the direct impact of inadequate sanitation practices on the health of these market women. This work found, among other things, alarming deficits in sanitation infrastructure and unhealthy sanitation practices within these markets. This research recommends, the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including local authorities, market associations, and community leaders so as to enforce extant hygiene laws, regulations, policies, programmes and actions by the government and its agencies in market settings.