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In Panama, the Cerro Patacón landfill, currently an open-air dump, represents a serious public health and environmental problem with direct repercussions on people’s quality of life. Surrounding communities, along with those affected by wind patterns, are exposed to constant emissions of sickening and polluting gases that pose a health risk. Consequently, this study aimed to analyze the perception of residents of the Guna Nega community regarding
the health effects related to the toxicity of gases emitted during the fires at Cerro Patacón. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional design was employed, using a structured survey with a representative sample of 127 people, most of whom were young women with low educational levels and informal employment or unemployment. Based on the results, more than 64% reported health changes in the past year, identifying respiratory, gastrointestinal, visual, and integumentary symptoms. The findings indicate that the longer the residence time in the area, the greater the perceived risk and the increased incidence of disease. Despite community awareness of negative health effects, socioeconomic factors limit the adoption of preventive measures. Thus, there is a need to implement health education programs and multisectoral prevention strategies that support sustainable development and well-being in these communities.
Este obra está bajo una licencia de Creative Commons Reconocimiento-NoComercial-CompartirIgual 4.0 Internacional.
