The Effect of Human Induced Ocean Pollution on Health Outcomes in Coastal Communities of Limbe

Abstract

Abstract This study examined the effects of human-induced ocean pollution on health outcomes in coastal communities of Limbe, Cameroon. Using exploratory research design, primary data were collected through questionnaires administered to 150 respondents across five coastal communities: Idenau, Down Beach, Bota Land, Wovia, and Ngeme. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression [Ordinary Least Square (OLS)]. Results revealed that plastic pollution and oil spillage have significant positive effects on health outcomes, while chemical pollution showed no statistically significant direct impact. Findings suggest that exposure to plastic waste and petroleum contamination leads to respiratory infections, skin irritations, and seafood contamination, which compromise public health in the affected areas. Based on this, it was recommended that there is need to upgrade solid waste collection and wastewater filtration systems to prevent microplastics and debris from entering coastal waters. Organised community led beach and river clean-ups to reduce the volume of microplastics breaking down into harmful micro and nano plastics. The findings on oil spillage indicated that there is need enforce strict exclusion zones to keep community members away from impacted beaches, marshes and volatile fumes. Keywords: Chemical Pollution, Plastic pollution, Oil spillage, Health Outcomes, and Coastal Communities, Limbe