The Nexus of Home Sanitation, Personal Hygiene, and Dermatitis: Evidence from Banjarmasin, Indonesia

Abstract

Dermatitis is a prevalent skin condition that can significantly impact the quality of life. While various factors contribute to its development, personal hygiene and environmental sanitation roles have been increasingly recognized. This study explored the relationship between personal hygiene practices, environmental sanitation factors, and dermatitis incidence in Banjarmasin City, Indonesia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 62 respondents, assessing multiple aspects of personal hygiene (hand, foot, nail, and skin cleanliness) and environmental sanitation (waste disposal and water quality). Data were collected through structured questionnaires and observational checklists, followed by statistical analysis using chi-square tests. Results revealed that a substantial proportion of respondents exhibited poor hygiene practices, with 53.2% demonstrating inadequate hand hygiene, 48.4% showing poor foot and nail cleanliness, and 46.8% displaying suboptimal skin hygiene. Environmental factors were also concerning, with 61.3% of respondents having inadequate wastewater disposal facilities and 62.9% facing poor waste management systems. Statistical analysis indicated significant associations between these factors and dermatitis incidence (p < 0.05), with poor personal hygiene and inadequate environmental sanitation strongly correlated with higher rates of dermatitis. These findings underscore the importance of improving personal hygiene practices and environmental sanitation measures in reducing dermatitis incidence and promoting overall skin health. The study contributes to the growing body of evidence linking hygiene and environmental factors to dermatological conditions, offering valuable insights into public health interventions. However, limitations include the relatively small sample size and the focus on a single urban area, which may limit generalizability. Future research should consider more significant, diverse populations and longitudinal designs to establish causal relationships. Practical implications include the need for targeted education programs on proper hygiene practices and advocacy for improved urban sanitation infrastructure. From a social perspective, addressing these issues could significantly improve community health and well-being, particularly in rapidly developing urban areas facing sanitation challenges.

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