Perceived Water Quality and Reported Health among Adults during the Flint, MI Water Crisis

  • Daniel J. Kruger University of Michigan, Population Studies Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • Suzanne Cupal Genesee County Health Department, Flint, Michigan
  • Gergana D. Kodjebacheva University of Michigan-Flint, Public Health and Health Sciences, Flint, Michigan & University of Michigan, International Institute, Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • Thomas V. Fockler University of Detroit Mercy, Health Services Administration, Detroit, Michigan

Abstract

Background and Purpose: In April 2014, the municipal water source for Flint, Michigan was changed from Lake Huron to the Flint River. Although residents reported concerns about the quality of tap water and resulting health problems, officials insisted that the water was safe. This study examined relationships between self-reported tap water quality during the water crisis and health conditions among Flint residents. Methods: Participants from each residential Census Tract in the City of Flint were recruited via address lists, online social media, and community-based events. The survey included mental and physical health items from the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and an item on tap water quarter quality experiences. Analyses were weighted to be demographically representative. Results: Participants (N = 277) rated their tap water quality (taste, smell, appearance) as Poor (57%), Fair (20%), Good (13%), Very Good (6%), and Excellent (3%). Controlling for age, gender, years of education, whether respondents were African American or Hispanic/Latino/a, and population demographics, lower perceived tap water quality was associated with worse mental and physical health across all indicators. Conclusion: This study demonstrates associations of tap water quality experiences with reported poor physical and mental health among adults in Flint during the Flint Water Crisis.
Published
2017-04-01
How to Cite
Kruger, D. J., Cupal, S., Kodjebacheva, G. D., & Fockler, T. V. (2017). Perceived Water Quality and Reported Health among Adults during the Flint, MI Water Crisis. Californian Journal of Health Promotion, 15(1), 56-61. https://doi.org/10.32398/cjhp.v15i1.1889