Comprehending the Environmental and Household Determinants of Jaundice Prevalence in Western Nepal

Abstract

Persuasive but scanty evidences from literature claim that climate change is linked with neonatal and adult Jaundice prevalence, especially in underdeveloped countries. This paper explored major environmental and household characteristics attributable to Jaundice prevalence in western Nepal. Cross-sectional dataset obtained from household survey are employed to obtain the results from probit regression model, adequately leveled with an econometric theory. The results reveal that heat wave, warmer winter temperature and sporadic rain are the potential environmental factors influencing Jaundice to be urgently addressed by the national agenda of adaptation program in western Nepal. Control in family size, construction of flushed toilet in each household, proper disposal of solid waste released from kitchen and setting habit of drinking boiled water are found the major household adaptation practices to be advocated along with environmental protection campaign for control of Jaundice prevalence in western Nepal. Henceforth, the recommendations are made for policymakers accordingly.