The Importance of Water Quality in Public Health

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 116 views

Analysis of Physical and Chemical Quality (FE, PH and (KMnO4)) on Peat Water Used by the Community as Well as Complaints from Community Health in the Plantation Village Ajamu Panai Hulu District, Labuhan Batu Regency in 2018

Introduction

Peat Water: A Source of Water in the Plantation Village of Ajamu

Peat water is a vital source of water for the community in the plantation village of Ajamu, Panai Hulu District, Labuhan Batu Regency. In areas with lowlands and swampy conditions, accessing clean water can be a significant challenge. As a result, peat water is used for various daily needs, including bathing, washing, and even as drinking water. This study aims to analyze the iron content (Fe), pH, and organic substances in peat water, as well as to understand the use of water in the daily lives of the community.

The Importance of Water Quality in Public Health

Water quality is a critical factor in maintaining public health. The use of peat water, which may not meet health standards, can lead to various health problems. This study aims to investigate the physical and chemical quality of peat water and its impact on public health in the plantation village of Ajamu.

Research Methodology

Descriptive Survey and Laboratory Tests

This research was conducted through a descriptive survey equipped with laboratory tests. The population studied consisted of 6,677 people, and the sample was taken using a proportional random sampling purposive technique involving 44 people. Peat water sampling was carried out at seven points, where three points came from dug wells and four points from the wellbore. The data taken included the chemical analysis of water quality, especially the content of Fe, PH, and KMnO4.

Research Results

Analysis of Chemical Quality Parameters

The results of the analysis show that from the chemical quality parameters tested, only two points (points 1 and 2 of the dug well) do not meet the quality requirements of clean water according to applicable standards. For pH parameters and KMnO4 content, only two other points (points 5 and 6 of the bore well) are eligible. The most dominant use of peat water comes from housewives for daily needs, reaching 97.7%. The community also reported health complaints related to the use of peat water, where 43.2% experienced skin problems such as redness, and 45.4% experienced itching.

Analysis and Explanation

The Impact of Peat Water Quality on Public Health

From the data obtained, it appears that although peat water is the main source for the community, the water quality does not fully meet health standards. High iron content can be a serious problem for health. Iron in water can cause health problems, including digestive problems and skin issues. In addition, an unbalanced pH can also affect the suitability of water for daily use.

Health Complaints and Water Quality

Health complaints that are often experienced by residents, such as skin problems, indicate a link between the quality of peat water and health. This indicates the need for more serious efforts in dealing with clean water problems in this region. The community should begin to adopt water treatment methods such as coagulation by adding alum as coagulants to reduce organic substances, as well as using filtration and aeration to reduce iron levels (FE). These steps are expected to produce cleaner peat water and meet health requirements, and minimize existing health complaints.

Recommendation

Improving Water Quality and Public Health

From the results of this study, it is recommended that people who are still dependent on peat water for daily needs immediately implement better water treatment methods. Education about the importance of water quality and simple ways to improve water cleanliness is very important to maintain public health. By improving the quality of peat water, it is hoped that the quality of life of the people in the Ajamu plantation village can also increase, so they no longer need to face health problems caused by water that does not meet the requirements.

Conclusion

This research provides valuable insight and at the same time encouraging concrete actions to improve water quality in the area. The findings of this study highlight the need for better water treatment methods and education about water quality to maintain public health. By implementing these recommendations, it is hoped that the quality of life of the people in the Ajamu plantation village can be improved, and they can enjoy better health and well-being.

Keywords: Peat water, water quality, public health, iron content, pH, KMnO4, coagulation, filtration, aeration, water treatment methods.

References:

[List of references cited in the study]

Appendix:

[Additional information and data supporting the findings of the study]

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Peat Water Quality and Public Health

Q: What is peat water?

A: Peat water is a type of water that is extracted from peat, a type of soil that is rich in organic matter. Peat water is often used as a source of water in areas where access to clean water is limited.

Q: Why is peat water quality important?

A: Peat water quality is important because it can affect public health. If peat water is contaminated with pollutants or has high levels of iron, it can cause health problems such as digestive issues, skin problems, and other illnesses.

Q: What are the common health problems associated with peat water?

A: The common health problems associated with peat water include skin problems such as redness and itching, digestive issues, and other illnesses. These health problems can be caused by high levels of iron, pH imbalance, and other contaminants in the peat water.

Q: How can peat water quality be improved?

A: Peat water quality can be improved by implementing better water treatment methods such as coagulation, filtration, and aeration. These methods can help to remove contaminants and pollutants from the peat water, making it safer for consumption.

Q: What is coagulation, and how does it work?

A: Coagulation is a water treatment method that involves adding chemicals to the peat water to remove contaminants and pollutants. The chemicals cause the contaminants to clump together, making it easier to remove them from the water.

Q: What is filtration, and how does it work?

A: Filtration is a water treatment method that involves passing the peat water through a filter to remove contaminants and pollutants. The filter can be made of various materials such as sand, gravel, or activated carbon.

Q: What is aeration, and how does it work?

A: Aeration is a water treatment method that involves adding oxygen to the peat water to remove contaminants and pollutants. The oxygen helps to break down the contaminants, making it easier to remove them from the water.

Q: Why is education about water quality important?

A: Education about water quality is important because it can help to raise awareness about the importance of clean water and the need for better water treatment methods. By educating the community about water quality, we can encourage them to take action to improve the quality of their water.

Q: What can individuals do to improve the quality of their peat water?

A: Individuals can improve the quality of their peat water by implementing better water treatment methods such as coagulation, filtration, and aeration. They can also educate themselves about water quality and take steps to reduce their exposure to contaminated water.

Q: What role can government and organizations play in improving peat water quality?

A: Government and organizations can play a significant role in improving peat water quality by providing funding and resources for water treatment infrastructure, implementing regulations and standards for water quality, and educating the community about the importance of clean water.

Q: What are the long-term benefits of improving peat water quality?

A: The long-term benefits of improving peat water quality include improved public health, increased economic productivity, and a reduced burden on healthcare systems. By improving peat water quality, we can create a healthier and more prosperous community.

Keywords: Peat water, water quality, public health, coagulation, filtration, aeration, education, government, organizations, long-term benefits.

References:

[List of references cited in the study]

Appendix:

[Additional information and data supporting the findings of the study]