Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
In today’s highly complex and modernized world, where the use of high-technology gadgets and equipment is seen as an integral part in terms of development of every person’s life, be it in their offices, in business establishments, or even at their own homes, exposure to all forms of radiations is seen as something inevitable.
According to Moulder (2003), radiation is naturally present in our environment, as it has been since before the birth of this planet. Many forms of radiation are encountered in the natural environment and are produced by modern technology. Most of them have the potential for both beneficial and harmful effects. Even sunlight, the most essential radiation of all, can be harmful in excessive amounts. In addition, radiation can be produced artificially, as in medical x-rays and microwaves for cooking. The various forms of radiation can be either beneficial or harmful, depending on their use and control. The most dangerous effect of radiation on the environment is damage to humans and animals. For that reason, regulation of certain radioactive sources is necessary to ensure that people and the environment are protected from unnecessary or excessive exposures.
Background or natural radiation, which is present in the universe since the world began, has been a part of people’s life. Though this form of radiation is destructive, it is not as destructive as the so-called man-made radiation which emit from high-technology gadgets such as mobile phones, computers, X-ray machines and photocopiers. Exposure to the radiation which emit from these gadgets could pose danger to individuals and to the environment.
In the Philippines, people’s knowledge on the ill effects of radiation is not substantial. There is a great need to make the people aware on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment. In so doing, background radiation may not be lessened or controlled, but people’s awareness on radiation’s ill effects can be heightened and thus, exposure to man-made radiation might be lessened and so are the dangers it pose on people’s health and on the environment as well.
In Davao City, the public’s awareness on the ill effects of radiation is minimal. There is a need to conduct studies on the ill effects of radiation to further inform the public on the pressing issue. Through this initiative, though we might not be able to lessen or avoid background radiation or the radiation from the environment, we can avoid or minimize our exposure to harmful man-made radiation.
Statement of the Problem
This study was conducted to determine the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation. Specifically, it sought answers the following questions:
1. What is the demographic profile of the respondents with regards to:
1.1. Gender;
1.2. Age; and
1.3. Educational Attainment?
2. What is the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation in terms of:
2.1. People’s health; and
2.3. the Environment?
3. Is there a significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by:
3.1. Gender;
3.2. Age; and
3.3. Educational Attainment?
Significance of the Study
The findings of the study would be beneficial to the following:
1. DOH Personnel. This will serve as their basis on disseminating information to the general public on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment and set guidelines on the proper ways on how to minimize if not totally avoid prolonged exposure to radiation through print and non-print media.
2. School Administrators in Elementary, High School and College. This will serve as their basis on disseminating information to the students on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment and set guidelines on the proper ways on how to minimize if not totally avoid prolonged exposure to radiation through academic lectures and school’s rules and regulations.
3. Business Corporations. This will serve as their basis on disseminating information to their personnel and clients on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment and set guidelines on the proper ways on how to minimize if not totally avoid prolonged exposure to radiation through memoranda and post advertisements.
4. The Government. This would serve as their basis in order to implement:
4.1. Specific laws on the proper use of computer monitors, computer printers, computer power supply or UPS, modems and routers.
4.2. Guidelines on the proper usage of electronic, medical, technological and communication gadgets which are known to emit harmful man-made radiations.
4.3. Specific laws on the proper installation and placement of wireless networks, routers and modems.
4.4. Guidelines on the proper distance needed to avoid reception of ELF or Extremely Low Frequency television radiation.
4.5. Specific laws on the proper use of photocopiers, microwave oven and X-ray machines.
4.6. Guidelines or ways on how to avoid over exposure to ultra violet rays from the sun.
5. General Public. This would serve as information for them to find ways on how to minimize if not totally avoid prolonged exposure to radiation emitted from medical, technological and specific communication gadgets and equipment which are known to emit harmful man-made radiation.
6. Scholars. This would serve as their basis to conduct further studies on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment to benefit the general public.
Scope and Limitation of the Study
The study was limited to the analysis on the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment. The respondents were residents of different areas in Davao City. The total number of respondents is 400, which were taken from the infinite number of population in Davao City, and this small sample size presents limitations in the interpretations of the results.
Definition of Terms
For the purpose of this study, the terms used are defined as follows:
Radiation. Refers to any process in which energy travels through a medium or through space, ultimately to be absorbed by another body.
Ionizing Radiation. Refers to a type of radiation sources may be found in a wide range of occupational settings, including health care facilities, research institutions, nuclear reactors and their support facilities, nuclear weapon production facilities, and other various manufacturing settings, just to name a few. These radiation sources can pose a considerable health risk to affected workers if not properly controlled.
Non-ionizing Radiation. Described as a series of energy waves composed of oscillating electric and magnetic fields traveling at the speed of light. Non-ionizing radiation is found in a wide range of occupational settings and can pose a considerable health risk to potentially exposed workers if not properly controlled.
Background Radiation. Refers to the radiation which is naturally present in our environment.
Man-made Radiation. Refers to radiation which emits from modern gadgets and equipment used in medical, technological and communications technology.
Computer Radiation. Refers to radiation which emit from computer monitors, printers, UPS, modems and routers.
Mobile Phone Radiation. Refers to extremely low level of radiation which emits from mobile communication gadgets.
Electro-magnetic Radiation. Classified into ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation, based on whether it is capable of ionizing atoms and breaking chemical bonds.
Wireless Networks. Refers to any type of computer network that is wireless, and is commonly associated with a telecommunications network whose interconnections between nodes is implemented without the use of wires.
Microwave Radiation. A form of "electromagnetic" radiation; that is, they are waves of electrical and magnetic energy moving together through space.
Ultraviolet Radiation. Refers to the radiation which primarily emits from the sun.
Allergic Reactions. Refer to sensitivities to substances, called allergens, which when contacted through the skin, inhaled into the lungs, swallowed, or injected produces reactions which defer from person to person.
Cancer. Refers to a class of disease in which a group of cells display uncontrolled growth.
Heart Disease. An umbrella term for a variety of different diseases affecting the heart.
Alzheimer’s Disease. A brain disorder named for German physician Alois Alzheimer, who first described it in 1906. This disease is characterized by extreme forgetfulness.
Computer Power Supply or UPS. Means uninterruptible power supply, also uninterruptible power source, UPS or battery/flywheel backup, is an electrical apparatus that provides emergency power to a load when the input power source, typically the utility mains, fails.
Network Routers. Physical devices that join multiple wired or wireless networks together.
Modems. (modulator-demodulator) A device that modulates an analog carrier signal to encode digital information, and also demodulates such a carrier signal to decode the transmitted information. The goal is to produce a signal that can be transmitted easily and decoded to reproduce the original digital data. Modems can be used over any means of transmitting analog signals, from driven diodes to radio.
Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Presented in this chapter is a review of related literature and some studies on the effects of radiation on people's health and the environment. This serves as background information in determining the negative or ill effects of radiation on people's health and on the environment as well.
Related Literature and Studies
Negative Effects of Radiation on People’s Health
Negative Effects of Computer Radiation. Computer radiation, laptop radiation and computer monitor radiation are important for all computer users. This type of radiation is known as extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic radiation. It is essentially the same kind of radiation that is emitted from power lines, TVs and other electrical and electronic appliances. If you are a computer user, computer radiation may be a substantial component of the total electromagnetic radiation which your body is exposed to. Many of us spend our working days in front of computer monitors, surrounded by electronic equipment, each item emitting ELF radiation. Because of the duration of this exposure (many hours every day), computer radiation is a great concern.
The "Encyclopedia Britannica" reports that "prolonged exposure to computer radiation leads to an increased risk of tumors, cancers, miscarriage, blood disorders, insomnia, headaches, anxiety, and skin disorders." Many people spend hours in front of computers that emit low levels of radiation. Such exposure is not considered harmful, although prolonged exposure is a matter of concern, according to some authorities. Some studies report that prolonged use of laptops by men can affect infertility. Warmth and radiation may affect the quality and quantity of sperm production.
For many years it has been known that ELF radiation can cause or contribute to various health problems, ranging from sleep interference and allergic reactions, through to heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The item most likely to cause a health hazard in many offices is the computer monitor, or screen. The box-shaped cathode ray tube (CRT) computer monitors generally have quite high levels of radiation at 30 cm. A constant 3 milligausus at 30 cm of computer monitor radiation is already bad enough, but don't forget the beleaguered computer user is probably also absorbing radiation from computers, printers, power supplies (ups), florescent lights, cell phones and other equipment. Pregnant women should be particularly careful about using CRT screens - which have been associated with higher rates of miscarriage and possibly birth defects.
Negative Effects of Mobile Phone Radiation. Mobile phone radiation and health effects have been studied, especially following the enormous increase in the use of wireless mobile telephony throughout the world, there were more than 4 billion users worldwide. Mobile phones use electromagnetic radiation in the microwave range, and researchers believe this may be either harmful or beneficial to human health. A Swedish scientific team at the Karolinska Institute conducted an epidemiological study (2004) that suggested that regular use of a mobile phone over a decade or more was associated with an increased risk of acoustic neuroma, a type of benign brain tumor. The increase was not noted in those who had used phones for fewer than 10 years.
Hardell (2007) reviewed published epidemiological papers (2 cohort studies and 16 case-control studies) and found that: Cell phone users had an increased risk of malignant gliomas. There has been a link between cell phone use and a higher rate of acoustic neuromas. Tumors are more likely to occur on the side of the head that the cell handset is used. One hour of cell phone use per day significantly increases tumor risk after ten years or more.
Some users of mobile handsets have reported feeling several unspecific symptoms during and after its use; ranging from burning and tingling sensations in the skin of the head and extremities, fatigue, sleep disturbances, dizziness, loss of mental attention, reaction times and memory retentiveness, headaches, malaise, tachycardia (heart palpitations), to disturbances of the digestive system.
Negative Effects of Radiation from Wireless Networks. Another area of concern is the radiation emitted by the fixed infrastructure used in mobile telephony, such as base stations and their antennas, which provide the link to and from mobile phones. This is because, in contrast to mobile handsets, it is emitted continuously and is more powerful at close quarters. On the other hand, field intensities drop rapidly with distance away from the base of the antenna because of the attenuation of power with the square of distance. Base station emissions must comply with safety guidelines. Some countries, however (such as South Africa) do not have any health regulations at all governing the placement of base stations.
Since the middle of the last century, technological advancements in telecommunications and other industries have led to significant increases in the use of radio frequencies. Equipment employing microwave and radio waves is today widely used not just in broadcasting and communications, but also in the health care industry, the food industry, and in a host of other industries in a wide range of applications. Several surveys have found increases of symptoms depending upon proximity to electromagnetic sources such as mobile phone base stations.
A 2002 survey study by Santini et al. in France found a variety of self-reported symptoms for people who reported that they were living within 300 metres (984 ft) of GSM cell towers in rural areas, or within 100 m (328 ft) of base stations in urban areas. Fatigue, headache, sleep disruption and loss of memory were among the symptoms reported. Similar results have been obtained with GSM cell towers in Spain, Egypt Poland and Austria. No major studies have been reported in which health effects did not occur on actual populations living near mobile base stations. However, there are significant challenges in conducting studies of populations near base stations, especially in assessment of individual exposure.
In order to protect the population living around base stations and users of mobile handsets, governments and regulatory bodies adopt safety standards, which translate to limits on exposure levels below a certain value. There are many proposed national and international standards, but that of the International Commission for Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) is the most respected one, and has been adopted so far by more than 80 countries. For radio stations, ICNIRP proposes two safety levels: one for occupational exposure, another one for the general population. Currently there are efforts underway to harmonize the different standards in existence.
Many governmental bodies also require that competing telecommunication companies try to achieve sharing of towers so as to decrease environmental and cosmetic impact. This issue is an influential factor of rejection of installation of new antennas and towers in communities.
Negative Effects of Radiation from X-ray Machines, TV Sets and Photocopiers. Man cannot escape exposure to some radiation. We are surrounded by natural radioactivity in the earth and by cosmic rays from outer space. This is called background radiation and cannot be controlled. We are also exposed to manmade radiation, which can and must be controlled.
Much of the manmade radiation people are exposed to comes from electronic products. These include diagnostic x-ray machines, television sets, microwave ovens, radar devices, and lasers. In some cases, as with diagnostic x-rays, radiation emitted from these devices is intentional and serves a useful purpose. In others, as with TV sets, radiation emitted is not intentional and is not essential to the use of the product. X-rays may be produced when electrons, accelerated by high voltage, strike an obstacle while traveling in a vacuum, as in a TV containing a cathode ray tube (CRT). Since many of the components in television sets operate at thousands of volts, there is the potential for x-ray generation. These components may produce x-rays capable of escaping from the television receiver or CRT. This unintentional emission of x-radiation can pose a potential hazard and must be controlled.
The U.S. Public Health Service opened an inquiry into the possible effects of radiation leakage from color television sets. One set manufacturer, General Electric, modified more than 100,000 sets to eliminate leakage. Surgeon General William H. Stewart minimized the danger to viewers. He suggested a viewing distance of six to ten feet from a color television set and warned against prolonged exposure to the rear or sides of a set.
Negative Effects of Microwave Radiation. According to CWA, “there is substantial scientific data that establishes negative health effects associated with microwave radiation.” CWA cites cataracts as one possible negative health effect from prolonged exposure, as well as well as nervous system damage and even reproductive problems in both males and females. Exposure to microwaves is dangerous mainly when high densities of microwave radiation are involved, as with masers. They can cause burns, cataracts, damage to the nervous system, and sterility. The U.S. government limits the exposure level, in general, to 10 milliwatts per square centimeter. Stricter limits are placed on microwave ovens.
Negative Effects of Ultraviolet Radiation. Human exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation has important public health implications. Evidence of harm associated with overexposure to UV has been demonstrated in many studies. Skin cancer and malignant melanoma are among the most severe health effects, but a series of other health effects have been identified. The current report provides a quantification of the global disease burden associated with UV. The information presented forms a knowledge base for the prevention of adverse effects of UV exposure that is achievable with known and accessible interventions. UV prevention focuses on protecting the skin and other organs from UV radiation. On the other hand, a moderate degree of UV exposure is necessary for the production of Vitamin D which is essential for bone health. Additionally, evidence emerges that low Vitamin D levels are likely to be associated with other chronic diseases. Thus, public health policy on ultraviolet radiation needs to aim at preventing the disease burden associated both with excessive and with insufficient UV exposure.
Negative Effects of Radiation on the Environment. Radiation occurs naturally when the nuclei of radioactive elements decay. Heat and light are forms of radiation that are generally not considered harmful. However, many forms of radiation, such as radiation which occurs in nuclear reactions, is deadly and can potentially cause long term environmental problems and damage. (Earle,2009)
Radiation can have devastating effects on living plants and animals. Radiation can damage living things at a cellular and genetic level. In some cases, damaged cells can repair themselves, but in other cases the damage is irreparable. One type of irreparable damage is genetic. Radiation can damage a cell's DNA, thus triggering cellular mutation that can sometimes result in cancer.
The environmental effects of radio frequencies are also largely unclear. Migrating birds have been known to fly right into cell phone and other communications towers. Some blame the radiation emanating from such towers for disorienting the birds and undermining their navigational abilities. Others chalk such incidents up to poor visibility associated with bad weather and nothing more. Some farmers have observed that cows grazing near cell towers are more likely to experience still births, spontaneous abortions, birth deformities and behavioral problems, not to mention general declines in overall health. Moving cattle herds away from such towers has reportedly led to immediate health improvements.
Radiation can cause severe cellular damage in seeds which sometimes prevents them from sprouting and germinating, thus affecting the ability of plants to reproduce. In addition, radiation can cause genetic mutations in growing plants which can hurt their ability to survive.
Radiation can trigger genetic changes in the cells of animals which result in the cells growing out of control. These out of control cell clusters are cancerous tumors. In addition, higher levels of radiation can cause damage to capillaries and small blood vessels, these higher levels can sometimes result in catastrophic heart failure or brain aneurysms. Because radiation is often accompanied by intense heat, which is simply a different type of radiation, exposure to intense radiation can often "cook" an animal. Some forms of radiation, such as microwave radiation, will cause animal life to "cook" from the inside out.
Research Hypothesis
The null hypothesis was formulated and tested that there is no significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by gender, age and educational attainment.
Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY
In this chapter, the researchers present the method used, sources of data, data-gathering instruments, sampling techniques, procedures of the study and the statistical treatment employed in the study.
Method Used
In this study, the researchers made use of descriptive research design. All the variables were analyzed using primary data gathered through survey questionnaires from among the respondents who are residents of Davao City. According to Calmoring (2006), this method is the most appropriate method in determining the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation.
Sources of Data
There were 400 respondents who are residents in Davao City. Slovin formula was utilized in the determination of the sample size. Purposive random sampling was utilized by the researchers.
Data Gathering Instrument
Questionnaires were used by the researchers in the gathering of data. This was constructed personally after thorough readings from the internet and other reading materials. The preliminary draft was shown to the adviser for corrections. It was submitted to the panel of experts for validity and after their corrections and suggestions, the questionnaire was modified as to its present form. The panel of experts who checked and validated the questionnaire are
Mr. Nonito C. Dela Torre, MBA, a Special Operations Officer; Ms. Ida A. Gauran, who graduated in Master in Management, Major in Human Resource Management and a full-time faculty member at Davao Doctor’s College;
Engr. Emmanuel Mercado, Health Physicist DOH XI; Engr. Nestor V. Patnugot, an OIC-Chief in the Legal and Environmental Education Division in Environmental Management Bureau XI; and Ms. Marichu P. Yanoyan, who graduated in Master of Science, Major in Environmental Resource Management, and a Laboratory Analyst at DENR, Region XI. The questionnaire was rated Very Good with the mean score of 3.88.
The first part of the questionnaire determined the demographic profile of the respondents particularly with regards to age, gender and highest educational attainment.
The second part of the questionnaire determined the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment. There were two indicators in the questionnaire and there were six questions in each indicator. The respondents were made to answer the questions regarding the diverse ill effects of radiation. The level of awareness of the respondents was measured using a five-point scale developed by Likert.
For purposes of analysis, the subsequent range or interval with its equivalent and interpretation are as follows:
Range of Means Level Interpretation
4.50 – 5.00 Very High If the respondents always manifested or revealed awareness on the ill effects of radiation.
3.50 – 4.49 High If the respondents often manifested or revealed awareness on the ill effects of radiation.
2.50 – 3.49 Moderate If the respondents sometimes manifested or revealed awareness on the ill effects of radiation.
1.50 – 2.49 Low If the respondents seldom manifested or revealed awareness on the ill effects of radiation.
1.00 – 1.49 No Awareness If the respondents never manifested or revealed awareness on the ill effects of radiation.
Sampling Technique
The researchers made use of the Slovin formula in the determination of sample size. There were a total of 400 respondents taken from the infinite number of population in Davao City.
Data Gathering Procedure
The questionnaires were administered personally by the researchers. The questionnaires, which were the research instruments, were retrieved after they were answered by the respondents. The questionnaires were tallied and tabulated for statistical analysis.
Statistical Treatment
The following statistical tools were used by the researchers.
Frequencies and Percentages. This was used by the researchers in determining the demographic profiles of the respondents.
Mean. This was used to determine the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation.
T - Test. This was used to determine the significance of the difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when grouped by gender.
ANOVA. This was used to determine the significance of the difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment when grouped by age and educational attainment.
In accepting and rejecting Null hypothesis, Alpha is set at 0.05 level of significance.
Chapter 4
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA
In this chapter, the researchers present the data, analysis and interpretation of findings. Discussion of topics is arranged in the following subheadings: Profile of the Respondents; Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation; and Significance of the Difference in the Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation When They are Grouped by Gender; Age and Educational Attainment
Profile of the Respondents
Presented in Table 1 is the profile of the respondents. There are a total of 400 respondents and 182 or 45.50 percent are male and 218 or 54.50 percent are female. The number of female is more than the male because most of the surveys were conducted in schools wherein the population is dominated by female.
In the age bracket, respondents under the age range of 10-20 years old comprised the 39.75 percent or 159 respondents, 21 – 30 years old comprised 40.25 percent or 161 respondents, 31-40 years old comprised 10.00 percent or 40 respondents, 41 – 50 years old comprised 6.25 percent or 25 respondents and 51-60 years old comprised 3.75 percent of 15 respondents.
Table 1
Profile of the Respondents
Profile
|
Frequency
|
Percent
| |
Gender
|
Male
|
182
|
45.50
|
Female
|
218
|
54.50
| |
Age
|
10-20
|
159
|
39.75
|
21-30
|
161
|
40.25
| |
31-40
|
40
|
10.00
| |
41-50
|
25
|
6.25
| |
51-60
|
15
|
3.75
| |
Educational Attainment
|
High School
|
90
|
22.50
|
College
|
289
|
72.25
| |
Post Graduate
|
21
|
5.25
| |
Total
|
400
|
100
| |
The two age brackets, 10-20 years old and 21-30 years old shared the most of the number of surveyed respondents with 80.00 percent or 320 respondents because most of them belong to college level which is the most number of respondents in terms of educational attainment.
Educational attainment of the respondents was categorized into three levels, High school, College, and those belong to the post graduate studies such as the Master’s degree and Doctorate Degree. High school comprised the 22.50 percent or 90 respondents, college comprised 72.25 percent or 289 respondents and Post Graduates comprised 5.25 percent or 21 respondents.
Most of the respondents are female equivalent to 54.50 percent; those under the age range between 21 to 30 years equivalent to 40.25; and college level equivalent to 72.25 percent.
Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation
Health. Presented in Table 2 is the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation in terms of health. The public manifested a high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to continuous and prolonged exposure to radiation emitted by laptop computers and computer power supply (UPS), and printers which may cause or contribute to various health problems, ranging from sleep interference and allergic reactions, through heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease with a mean score of 3.81.
The public manifested a high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to continuous and prolonged exposure to computer monitors and television which may cause or contribute to various health problems with a mean score of 3.74.
Table 2
Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation in Terms of Health
Health
|
Mean
|
Descriptive Level
|
1. Continuous and prolonged exposure to radiation emitted by laptop computers and computer power supply (UPS), & printers may cause or contribute to various health problems, ranging from sleep interference and allergic reactions, through heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's disease.
|
3.81
|
High
|
2. Continuous and prolonged exposure to computer monitors and television may cause or contribute to various health problems such as stated in item number
|
3.74
|
High
|
3. Continuous and prolonged exposure to radiation from wireless networks, routers, and modems may lead to an increased risk of tumors, cancers, miscarriage, insomnia, headaches, anxiety or stress and skin disorders.
|
3.63
|
High
|
4. Continuous and prolonged exposure to radiation from photocopiers and X-ray machines may cause burns, cataracts, damage to the nervous system, and sterility.
|
3.69
|
High
|
5. Continuous and prolonged exposure to microwave oven radiation may cause burns, cataracts, damage to the nervous system, and sterility.
|
3.23
|
Moderate
|
6. Increased ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which resulted from the continued depletion of the ozone layer, would lead to a growing number of skin cancers and cataracts and also reduce the ability of immune systems to respond to infection.
|
3.99
|
High
|
Overall Mean
|
3.68
|
High
|
The public manifested a high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to continuous and prolonged exposure to radiation from wireless networks, routers, and modems which may lead to an increased risk of tumors, cancers, miscarriage, insomnia, headaches, anxiety or stress and skin disorders with a mean score of 3.63.
The public manifested a high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to continuous and prolonged exposure to radiation from photocopiers which may cause burns, cataracts, damage to the nervous system, and sterility with a mean score of 3.69.
The public manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to continuous and prolonged exposure to microwave oven radiation may cause burns, cataracts, damage to the nervous system, and sterility with a mean score of 3.23.
The public manifested high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to increased ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which resulted from the continued depletion of the ozone layer, which would lead to a growing number of skin cancers and cataracts and also reduce the ability of immune systems to respond to infection with a mean score of 3.99.
The overall mean score of the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation in terms of health is 3.68. Therefore, they manifested a high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health.
Environment. Presented in Table 3 is the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation in terms of environment. The public manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to increased ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which resulted from the continued depletion of the ozone layer and could result to the decline of growth of the world’s oceanic plankton, the base of most marine food chain with a mean score of 3.24.
The public manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to excessive ultraviolet radiation from the sun which may harm the embryos of various types of amphibians in many parts of the world with a mean score of 3.16.
The public manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation from cell phone and other communication towers which may cause migrating birds to fly right into these towers with a mean score of 2.75.
The public manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation which can trigger genetic changes in the cells of animals which result to their cells growing out of control which results to cancerous tumors with a mean score of 2.99.
Table 3
Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation in Terms of Environment
Environment
|
Mean
|
Descriptive Level
|
1. Increased ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which resulted from the continued depletion of the ozone layer, would result to the decline of growth of the world’s oceanic plankton, the base of most marine food chains.
|
3.24
|
Moderate
|
2. Excessive ultraviolet radiation from the sun may harm the embryos of various types of amphibians in many parts of the world.
|
3.16
|
Moderate
|
3. Migrating birds have been known to fly right into cell phone and other communications towers. Some blame the radiation emanating from such towers for disorienting the birds and undermining their navigational abilities.
|
2.75
|
Moderate
|
4. Harmful effects of radiation can trigger genetic changes in the cells of animals which result in the cells growing out of control which results to cancerous tumors.
|
2.99
|
Moderate
|
5. Harmful effects of radiation can cause severe cellular damage in seeds which sometimes prevents them from sprouting and germinating, thus affecting the ability of plants to reproduce.
|
2.97
|
Moderate
|
6. Radiation can have harmful effects on plants and trees at high levels and thus results to the weakening of the seeds, leaves and their natural ability to produce food.
|
3.15
|
Moderate
|
Overall Mean
|
3.04
|
Moderate
|
The public manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation which can cause severe cellular damage in seeds which sometimes prevents them from sprouting and germinating, thus affecting the ability of plants to reproduce with a mean score of 2.97
The public manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation due to its harmful effects on plants and trees at high levels and thus results to the weakening of the seeds, leaves and their natural ability to produce food with a mean score of 3.15.
The overall mean score of the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation in terms of environment is 3.04. Therefore, they manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation on the environment.
Summary. Presented in Table 4 is the summary of the Level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation both in terms of health and environment and it shows that most people have high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation on health rather than on the ill effects of radiation to the environment. The overall mean shows that the public manifested a moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of environment with a mean score of 3.36.
The public manifested moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation with the mean score of 3.36. However, they revealed high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of health with the mean score of 3.68 and moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in the environment with the mean score of 3.04 respectively.
Table 4
Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation
Indicator
|
Mean
|
Descriptive level
|
Health
|
3.68
|
High
|
Environment
|
3.04
|
Moderate
|
Overall Mean
|
3.36
|
Moderate
|
Significance of the Difference in the Level of Awareness
of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation
When They are Grouped by Gender
Presented in Table 5 is the significance of the difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by gender. With health as the indicator, both male and female respondents manifested high level of awareness with the mean score of 3.63 and 3.72 respectively. The t computed value is 1.184 with the P value of 0.237 which is greater than 0.05 level of significance. The result is not significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis. This implies that both male and female respondents reveal equal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of health.
Also, with environment as the indicator, both male and female respondents manifested moderate level of awareness with the mean score of 2.96 and 3.11 respectively. The t computed value is 1.585 with the P value of 0.114 which is greater than 0.05 level of significance. The result is not significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis. This implies that both male and female respondents reveal equal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of environment.
The overall result reveals that both male and female respondents manifested moderate level of awareness on health and environment with a mean score of 3.30 and 3.41 respectively. The overall t computed value is 1.754 and the P value of 0.080 which is greater than 0.05 level of significance.
Table 5
Significance of the Difference in the Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation When They are Grouped by Gender
Indicator
|
Gender
|
t- value
|
P value
|
Decision on Ho
| |
Male
|
Female
| ||||
Health
|
3.63
|
3.72
|
1.184
|
0.237
|
Accept
|
Environment
|
2.96
|
3.11
|
1.585
|
0.114
|
Accept
|
Overall
|
3.30
|
3.41
|
1.754
|
0.080
|
Accept
|
The result is not significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis. This implies that the respondents reveal equal level of awareness in the ill effects of radiation in terms of both the environment and health when they are grouped by gender.
Significance of the Difference in the Level of Awareness
of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation
When They are Grouped by Age
Presented in Table 6 is the significance of the difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by age. With health as the indicator, 10-20 years old, 21-30 years old, 31-40 years old, 41-50 years old and 51-60 years old respondents manifested high level of awareness with a mean score of 3.65, 3.74, 3.60, 3.58 and 3.77 respectively. The F computed value is 0.616 with the P value of 0.652 which is greater than 0.05 level of significance. The result is not significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis. This implies that 10 - 60 year old respondents reveal equal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of health.
With environment as the indicator, 10-20 years old, 21-30 years old, 31-40 years old and 41-50 years old manifested moderate level of awareness with mean score of 3.20, 2.88, 2.74 and 3.07 respectively while 51-60 years old manifested high level of awareness with mean score of 3.74. The F computed value is 5.349 with the P value of 0.000 which is lower than 0.05 level of significance. The result is significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis.
Table 6
Significance of the Difference in the Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation When They are Grouped by Age
Indicator
|
Age
|
F ratio
|
P value
|
Decision on Ho
| ||||
10-20
|
21-30
|
31-40
|
41-50
|
51-60
| ||||
Health
|
3.65
|
3.74
|
3.60
|
3.58
|
3.77
|
0.616
|
0.652
|
Accept
|
Environment
|
3.20
|
2.88
|
2.74
|
3.07
|
3.74
|
5.349
|
0.000
|
Reject
|
Overall
|
3.43
|
3.11
|
3.17
|
3.32
|
3.76
|
2.659
|
0.033
|
Reject
|
This implies that 10 - 60 year old respondents reveal unequal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of environment.
The overall result reveals that 10-20 years old, 21-30 years old, 31-40 years old and 41-50 years old manifested moderate level of awareness with mean score of 3.43, 3.11, 3.17 and 3.32 respectively while 51-60 years old manifested high level of awareness with mean score of 3.76. The F computed value is 2.659 with the P value of 0.033 which is lower than 0.05 level of significance. The result is significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis. This implies that 10 - 60 years old respondents reveal unequal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of both in health and the environment when they are grouped by age.
Significance of the Difference in the Level of Awareness
of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation
When They are Grouped by Educational Attainment
Presented in Table 7 is the significance of the difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by Educational Attainment. With health as the indicator, high school, college and post graduate respondents manifested high level of awareness with a mean score of 3.51, 3.70 and 4.14 respectively. The F computed value is 6.624 with the P value of .001 which is lower than 0.05 level of significance. The result is significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis. This implies that high school, college and post graduate respondents reveal unequal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of health.
Table 7
Significance of the Difference in the Level of Awareness of the Public on the Ill Effects of Radiation When They are Grouped According to Educational Attainment
Indicator
|
Educational Attainment
|
F ratio
|
P value
|
Decision on Ho
| ||
High School
|
College
|
Post Graduate
| ||||
Health
|
3.51
|
3.70
|
4.14
|
6.624
|
0.001
|
Reject
|
Environment
|
2.80
|
3.09
|
3.44
|
4.920
|
0.008
|
Reject
|
Overall
|
3.16
|
3.40
|
3.80
|
8.671
|
0.000
|
Reject
|
With environment as the indicator, high school, college and post graduate respondents manifested moderate level of awareness with mean score of 2.80, 3.09 and 3.44 respectively. The F computed value is 4.920 with the P value of .008 which is lower than 0.05 level of significance. The result is significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis. This implies that high school, college and post graduate respondents reveal unequal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of the ill effects of radiation on the environment.
The overall result reveals that high school and college manifested moderate level of awareness with mean score of 3.16 and 3.40 respectively. Post graduates manifested high level of awareness with a mean score of 3.80. The F computed value is 8.671 with the P value of 0.00 which is lower than 0.05 level of significance. The result is significant in the acceptance of the hypothesis. This implies that high school, college and post graduate respondents reveal unequal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms both in health and environment when they are grouped by educational attainment.
Chapter 5
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
In this chapter, the researchers present the summary, conclusions and
recommendations of the study.
Summary
This study was conducted to determine the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation. Specifically, it sought answers the following questions:
1. What is the demographic profile of the respondents with regards to:
1.1. Gender;
1.2. Age; and
1.3. Educational Attainment?
2. What is the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation in terms of:
2.1. People’s health; and
2.3. the Environment?
3. Is there a significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by:
3.1. Gender;
3.2. Age; and
3.3. Educational Attainment?
The null hypothesis was formulated and tested that there is no significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by gender, age and educational background.
Descriptive method was used in this study. All of the variables were analyzed using primary data gathered through survey questionnaires from among the 400 respondents who are residents from different areas in Davao City. Mean, frequency counts and percentage, T-test and ANOVA were the statistical tools used for the analysis of the data.
The findings of the study are summarized as follows:
1. Most of the respondents are female which is equivalent to 54.50 percent or 218 out of the 400 respondents. Also, most of the respondents are those under the age range between 21 to 30 years old which is equivalent to 40.25 or 161 out of 400 respondents. Finally, most of the respondents are college level which is equivalent to 72.25 percent or 289 out of the 400 respondents.
2. The public manifested moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation with the mean score of 3.36. However, they revealed high level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of health with the mean score of 3.68 and moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in the environment with the mean score of 3.04 respectively.
3. There is no significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by gender as revealed in the t computed value of 1.754 with the P value of 0.080 which is greater than 0.05 level of significance. This implies that the respondents reveal equal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of both health and the environment when they are grouped by gender.
There is a significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by age as revealed in the F computed value of 2.659 with the P value of 0.033 which is lesser than 0.05 level of significance. This implies that 10 - 60 years old respondents reveal unequal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms of both health and the environment when they are grouped by age.
There is a significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effect of radiation when they are grouped by educational attainment as revealed in the F computed value of 8.671 with the P value of 0.000 which is lower than 0.05 level of significance. This implies that high school, college and post graduate respondents reveal unequal level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation in terms both health and the environment when they are grouped by educational attainment.
Conclusion
Based on the findings of the study, the researchers conclude that most of the respondents are female which is equivalent to 54.50 percent or 218 out of the 400 respondents. Also, most of the respondents are those under the age range between 21 to 30 years old which is equivalent to 40.25 or 161 out of 400 respondents. Finally, most of the respondents are college level which is equivalent to 72.25 percent or 289 out of the 400 respondents. They manifested moderate level of awareness on the ill effects of radiation.
There is no significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effects of radiation when they are grouped by gender. However, there is a significant difference in the level of awareness of the public on the ill effect of radiation when they are grouped by age and educational attainment.
Recommendation
Based on the findings and conclusion, the following are the recommendations:
1. The DOH personnel should disseminate information to the general public on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment and set guidelines on the proper ways on how to minimize if not totally avoid prolonged exposure to radiation through print and non-print media.
2. The School Administrators in Elementary, High School and College, be it in public or private schools should disseminate information to the students on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment and set guidelines on the proper ways on how to minimize if not totally avoid prolonged exposure to radiation through their academic lectures and school’s rules and regulations.
3. Business Corporations should disseminate information to their personnel and clients on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment and set guidelines on the proper ways on how to minimize if not totally avoid prolonged exposure to radiation through memoranda and post advertisements.
4. The Government should implement the following:
4.1. Specific laws on the proper use of computer monitors, computer printers, computer power supply or UPS, modems and routers.
4.2. Guidelines on the proper usage of electronic, medical, technological and communication gadgets which are known to emit harmful man-made radiations.
4.3. Specific laws on the proper installation and placement of wireless networks, routers and modems.
4.4. Guidelines on the proper distance needed to avoid reception of ELF or Extremely Low Frequency television radiation.
4.5. Specific laws on the proper use of photocopiers, microwave oven and X-ray machines.
4.6. Guidelines or ways on how to avoid over exposure to ultra violet rays from the sun.
5. The general public should be aware on the ill effects of ration and find ways on how to minimize if not totally avoid prolonged exposure to radiation emitted from medical, technological and specific communication gadgets and equipment which are known to emit harmful man-made radiation.
6. Scholars should conduct further studies on the ill effects of radiation on people’s health and on the environment to benefit the general public.
REFERENCES
John E. Moulder. "Static Electric and Magnetic Fields and Human Health". http://www.mcw.edu/gcrc/cop/static-fields-cancer-FAQ/toc.html.
Alumanda M. Dela Rosa and Rosana B. Banzon. Atomic Research Division, Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/
Christopher Earle, Environmental Effects of Radiation, April 30,2009.
"Biological Radiation Effects." Microsoft® Student 2007 [DVD]. Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation, 2006.
