Impact of Swine Odor on Community Health
Author Information
Author(s): Wing Steve, Horton Rachel, Avery Marshall, Stephen W., Thu Kendall, Tajik Mansoureh, Schinasi Leah, Schiffman Susan S.
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
How do swine odor episodes relate to environmental measurements and affect the daily activities of nearby residents?
Conclusion
Malodor from swine operations is commonly present in these communities and is related to environmental measurements and interruptions in daily activities.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants reported 1,655 episodes of swine odor during the study.
- Odor ratings were related to environmental factors like temperature and PM10.
- 62% increase in the odds of reporting activity changes for each unit increase in average odor.
Takeaway
People living near pig farms often smell bad odors, which can make them change their daily activities, like closing windows or not going outside.
Methodology
Participants reported odor episodes using diaries while environmental factors like temperature and hydrogen sulfide were monitored.
Potential Biases
Participants' prior experiences with odors may influence their reporting.
Limitations
The study may not represent all neighborhoods as it relied on local knowledge for participant selection.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 66 women and 35 men, aged 19 to 89, with a majority identifying as black.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.15
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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