IMPACT OF POOR DRAINAGE SYSTEMS ON FLOODING AND THE PREVALENCE OF WATERBORNE DISEASES

Abstract

Poor drainage systems remain a major environmental and public health challenge, contributing to flooding and increased exposure to waterborne diseases in vulnerable communities. This study assessed the impact of poor drainage systems on flooding occurrence and the prevalence of waterborne diseases among residents of Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted using a mixed-method approach involving structured questionnaires, direct observation, and health record reviews. A total of 410 respondents participated in the study. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression. The findings revealed that drainage conditions were inadequate, with frequent blockage of drainage channels (72.7%), waste accumulation (68.5%), poor maintenance (69.3%), and inadequate drainage capacity during rainfall (77.6%). Flooding was widely experienced, with 76.6% of respondents reporting flood occurrence within the previous year. Diarrhoea (42.7%) and typhoid fever (38.5%) were the most commonly reported waterborne diseases. Significant associations were observed between poor drainage conditions and flooding occurrence (p < 0.05), while flood exposure was significantly associated with waterborne disease occurrence (χ² = 6.72, p = 0.010). Logistic regression further showed that frequent flooding, blocked drainage channels, poor waste disposal, and lack of drainage maintenance significantly predicted waterborne disease occurrence.The study concludes that inadequate drainage management contributes significantly to flooding and increases vulnerability to waterborne diseases. Improved drainage infrastructure, routine maintenance, effective waste management, and integrated environmental health interventions are recommended.