Health risks of carbon monoxide and mitigation strategies in Abuja municipal area council, Nigeria

Carbon monoxide (CO) pollution from rapid urbanization and increasing vehicle emissions poses a significant public health and environmental threat in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Nigeria. This study addresses a critical gap by conducting an integrated assessment linking CO levels to vegetation health and community impacts to inform localized policies. We analysed CO concentrations and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) values from 2018 to 2024 using satellite data from Google Earth Engine, assessing their relationship with advanced regression models. A concurrent survey of 84 residents, health workers, and policymakers evaluated health impacts and awareness. Results revealed higher CO levels in high-traffic zones and during the dry season, with a complex, non-linear relationship to EVI. The survey showed a strong correlation between CO exposure and respiratory/cardiovascular issues, with most respondents facing financial burdens from related illnesses. Despite high awareness (80%), a significant gap existed in adopting protective measures. The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated strategies in AMAC, including stricter vehicle emission standards, low-emission zones, and expanded green spaces to reduce CO pollution, protect public health, and promote sustainable urban development.