Project Abstract

Abstract
The health status of primary school pupils in Nigeria is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. This research project aims to investigate how both hereditary and environmental factors impact the overall health of primary school children in Nigeria. The study will delve into existing literature on the topic and conduct primary research to gather data on the health status of primary school pupils. The research will explore the role of genetics in predisposing children to certain health conditions and illnesses. By examining family health histories and genetic predispositions, the study aims to identify common hereditary factors that may contribute to the health status of primary school pupils. Understanding the genetic component of health will provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions and preventive measures. In addition to genetics, the study will also focus on the influence of environmental factors on the health of primary school children in Nigeria. This includes aspects such as living conditions, access to healthcare, sanitation, nutrition, and exposure to environmental hazards. By analyzing how these environmental factors impact the health status of pupils, the research aims to highlight areas for improvement and intervention. The research will utilize a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews and observations. Surveys will be conducted to gather information on the health status of primary school pupils, including common health issues, prevalence of illnesses, and access to healthcare services. Interviews with parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals will provide additional insights into the environmental and hereditary factors influencing children's health. Findings from this research project are expected to contribute valuable information to the existing body of knowledge on child health in Nigeria. By identifying the interplay between genetics and environment in shaping the health status of primary school pupils, the study aims to inform policies and interventions aimed at improving the overall health and well-being of children in the country. Ultimately, the research seeks to raise awareness of the importance of considering both hereditary and environmental factors in promoting the health of primary school pupils in Nigeria.

Project Overview

The study investigated the influence of environment and heredity on health status of primary school pupils in Jos north Local Government Area, Plateau state. Related literature were reviewed on the area by the study, descriptive survey research design method was used. The populace of the study comprised all primary schools in Jos north Local Government Area Plateau state; two hundred respondents were randomly selected from five schools in Jos north Local Government Area. The instrument used for the study was a structured questionnaire which was validated and tested for reliability. The test retest method was used and the coefficient of the reliability was 0.87.

Descriptive statistics of simple percentage and inferential statistics of chi-square (X2) was used to analyze the data collected from the respondents at 0.05 alpha level of significance. The result revealed that significant difference exists between the influence of environment and heredity on health status of primary school pupil in Jos north Local Government Area Plateau State. That Environment influences the health status of primary school pupils, that Heredity influences the health status of primary school pupils, that Environment influences the body weight of primary school pupils, that Heredity influences the intelligence level of primary school pupils, that Heredity influences the skin colour of primary school pupils, that Heredity influences the height of primary school pupils. The research recommended among others that the federal government should employ qualified and trained teachers with standard qualification that will educate the primary school pupils on the effect of bad and dirty environment, Health educators, doctors and counselors should educate and inform couples about the effect of marrying individuals with diseased genotype and how to reduce the cases of transferring diseases such as sickle cell anemia to their unborn children, Health expert, doctors and counselors should advise mothers (women generally) on the benefit of taking balance diet and good nutrition before delivery and the child should be given adequate proportion of nutrient that will influence their health status positively, federal government should employ trained and qualified teachers with standard qualification that will teach and educate student, so that there intelligence level can be enhanced, both student who have high level of intelligence quotient and low intelligence quotient who needs special education, health expert and educators should establish a cordial relationship with the community and local government area by organizing seminar and symposia about the influence of heredity on skin colour of children and how it can be reduce to its minimum, health services expert should educate couples and families on information about the influence of heredity on the height of their children.