Assessing the impact of Heavy metal exposure and E-Waste expansion on Trypanosomiasis burden in Nigeria: the role of environmental and social work education

Abstract

This study investigates the correlation between heavy metal exposure due to electronic waste (e-waste) and the burden of trypanosomiasis in Nigeria, emphasizing the critical role of medical-social work and environmental education. The study explores how e-waste proliferation contributes to environmental contamination and its implications for public health, particularly in vulnerable populations. By integrating epidemiological data with insights from medical-social work and environmental education, the study highlights the necessity for enhanced training and awareness among healthcare professionals. The study posits a significant relationship between heavy metal exposure, e-waste expansion, and increased trypanosomiasis incidence, underscoring the need for educational initiatives to improve diagnostic and intervention strategies. Besides, a proposed framework for integrating environmental health education into medical-social work curricula.