Measuring indoor environmental quality and its effects on human health in coastal regions of eastern India

Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) profoundly impacts residents’ health and well-being, with poor IEQ linked to various health risks. The study examines IEQ and its health implications for residents in rural and semi-urban areas of eastern India and was conducted across four coastal blocks in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal. The study involved 1332 participants. It explored the impact of climate, environmental conditions and building features on health throughout different seasons. Essential factors such as thermal, visual and acoustic comfort and productivity were crucial to residents’ satisfaction and overall well-being. A strong correlation emerged between building design, residents’ perceived quality and satisfaction, emphasising the need for thoughtful design approaches. ANOVA results showed significant IEQ differences across communities and genders. Serious health issues have been linked to poor IEQ, including vestibular neuritis, dermatological disorders and dyspnoea – symptoms often associated with sick-building syndrome (SBS). Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed three components accounting for 59.2% of SBS cases. Additionally, integrating the Universal Thermal Climate Index provided more profound insights into heat stress prevalence, offering a unique perspective on environmental challenges. The findings underscore the importance of bioclimatic design strategies tailored to the specific needs of coastal and rural settings in eastern India.