Health Consequences of Using Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as an Alternative Car Fuel in Gaza Governorates

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the attitude and perceived health status of car drivers in relation to the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as car fuel. Methods: Close-ended questionnaire was administered to 230 drivers and volatile organic compounds (VOC) levels emission were determined for each of the cars driven by the drivers. Results: Although none of the cars was authorized to work on LPG, 42.6% of car engines were powered with LPG. The lowest health complains were reported by drivers using LPG. Public health and environmental impact of LPG were not among the concerns of the majority of drivers. The mean health complains percentage score (MHCPS) significantly favours LPG as better fuel for driver health. All categories of cars showed more or less degree of VOC emissions, the lowest VOC was recorded in diesel-based engines. Significant correlation was found between MHCPS and VOC. Conclusions: A high proportion of drivers use LPG in their cars even though public health and environmental soundness of LPG were not among the concerns of the majority of drivers. It is recommended that a public enlightenment program should be organised to address the problem properly.

Keywords: Fuel; Liquefied petroleum gas; Attitude; Health complains; Volatile organic compounds