Geomedical Assessment of Laterite Deposits and Their Influence on the Incidence of Acute Respiratory Infections and Diarrhea in the South Konawe Nickel Mining Region, Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract The mining sector is a vital component of the Indonesian economy. Nickel laterite mining operations result in the discharge of metals such as iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) into the surrounding environment. This has serious consequences for the environment and the health of the local population. The geomedical evaluation study was conducted by combining the ISFAR DEM mapping method, metal measurements in the air through gravimetric tests and sediment measurements with AAS tests and an integrated public health factor determinant survey. This was achieved by conducting observations with validated instruments on 99 respondents with 10% precision. The observation data was then analysed using correlation ( X 2 ) and risk magnitude (OR) tests in the South Konawe Regency. The study’s findings indicated that the Laeya District area is characterised by silicic rock formations spanning from the Middle Miocene to the Late Miocene periods. The study also reported PM 2.5 dust measurements of 56.7 µ g/m 3 and PM 10 levels of 79.9 µ g/m 3 , both of which exceed the established threshold value. Meanwhile, the results of the odds ratio statistical test demonstrated that the presence of mining variables resulted in a risk magnitude of 7.643 times greater than other variables for the occurrence of ARI. Tinanggea District, which is located in the ultramafic complex area and young alluvial sedimentary rocks, showed that the results of the inlet and outlet sediment examination were below the threshold value, with the odds ratio statistical test showing that consumption patterns had a risk magnitude of 6.218 times greater than other variables for the occurrence of diarrhea. The study’s findings demonstrate a significant correlation between mining activities in specific geographical regions and an elevated risk of acute respiratory infections (ARI) and diarrhea. This observation underscores the necessity for government policies aimed at mitigating dust exposure and sediment pollution in areas dedicated to laterite nickel mining.

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