ANALYSIS OF SKIN DISORDER INCIDENCE AMONG WASTE PICKERS AT THE TERJUN LANDFILL IN 2024

Abstract

Waste pickers are at a significantly high risk of developing skin disorders due to their poor working environment. This study aims to identify the factors influencing skin disorders among waste pickers at the Landfill in Terjun Subdistrict, Medan City, in 2024. This research is an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design. The study was conducted at the Terjun Final Waste Disposal Site, Terjun Subdistrict, Medan Marelan District, Medan City, from July to August 2024. The study population included all waste pickers around the Terjun Landfill. Based on sample calculations, a total of 82 waste pickers were included in the study, selected through simple random sampling. Data collection procedures involved direct observation and skin examinations. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. The data analysis consisted of three stages: univariate analysis using frequency distribution, bivariate analysis using the chi-square test, and multivariate analysis using multiple logistic regression with a 95% significance level (p-value ≤ 0.05). The results showed that several factors were significantly associated with skin complaints, including working hours (p=0.005), duration of employment (p=0.019), personal hygiene (p=0.001), and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (p=0.003). The most dominant factor influencing the occurrence of skin disorders among waste pickers was personal hygiene (p=0.001; Exp.B=18.958). It is recommended that waste pickers at the Terjun Landfill maintain proper personal hygiene, such as thoroughly washing the body after work, changing work clothes daily, and cleaning them properly.