Parental Awareness of Environmental Pollution and Its Implications for Infant Health in Petroleum Refining Communities of Rivers State, Nigeria

Crude oil refining is a major economic activity in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, particularly in Eleme and Tai Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Rivers State. However, widespread industrial and artisanal refining activities have led to significant environmental pollution, affecting vulnerable populations, especially infants. This study assessed parental awareness of environmental pollution and its implications for infant health. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, surveying 400 parents of infants residing within 5 kilometers of refinery activities. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a validated structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA with SPSS version 28. A total of 357 responses were valid for analysis. Findings revealed a high level of parental awareness of environmental risks, particularly in relation to air, water, soil, and noise pollution, with weighted average scores of 3.12 in Eleme and 3.20 in Tai. No significant differences were found based on gender, age, or educational level. Respondents associated refinery pollution with foul odors, contaminated water, and respiratory discomfort. The study concludes that while awareness is high, public health interventions must support behavior change and structural improvements to reduce infant exposure risks in oil-polluted communities.