Climate Change and Health Outcomes in Urban Slums: A case of Lagos Nigeria

Abstract

Urban slums in Lagos, Nigeria, face significant health risks due to climate change, including extreme heat, flooding, and air pollution. This study examines the impacts of these climate-related factors on health outcomes among vulnerable populations in three Lagos slum communities: Makoko, Ajegunle, and Ijora Badia. Using a cross-sectional mixed-methods design, quantitative data from 600 households and qualitative insights from interviews and focus group discussions were analyzed. The findings reveal that 35% of respondents’ experienced heat-related illnesses, 48% suffered from waterborne diseases linked to flooding, and 42% reported respiratory conditions exacerbated by air pollution. Households in flood-prone areas were 3.5 times more likely to report waterborne diseases, while exposure to PM2.5 above WHO standards increased asthma cases twofold. Residents highlighted systemic issues, including inadequate healthcare access and poor infrastructure, as barriers to resilience. This study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions, including flood mitigation infrastructure, air quality regulations, and health education programs, to protect the health and well-being of slum dwellers. Addressing these challenges is critical for enhancing community resilience and improving health outcomes in the face of escalating climate change impacts.