<![CDATA[Indoor air quality significantly affects occupants’ health, particularly by increasing the risk of respiratory disorders. This analytical observational study employed a cross-sectional design to examine the relationship between the physical characteristics of house and their surrounding environment and the concentrations of PM2,5 and PM10 particulates in Sungai Pinang and Samarinda Ulu Districts. A total of 151 houses were selected using purposive sampling. The variables investigated included wall condition, ventilation, ceiling condition, type of cooking fuel, occupancy density, and the presence of plants. PM2,5 and PM10 concentrations were measured using a Dust Sampler, and the data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses (Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests). The results showed variations in particulate concentrations between the two study locations. At he first location, the mean PM2,5 and PM10 concentrations were 9 µg/m³ and 52 µg/m³ respectively (temperature 32.15°C; relative humidity 71%). At the second location, the mean concentrations were 12 µg/m³ and 71 µg/m³ (temperature 33.14°C; relative humidity 72%). Most houses had non-permanent walls (72.8%) and ventilation that did not meet the recommended health standards (99.3%). Bivariate analysis indicated that wall conditions was the only variable significantly associated with PM2.5 (p=0.040) and PM10 (p=0.049) concentrations. No statistically significant associations were observed for the other variables. In conclusion, wall condition is an important determinant of indoor particulate concentrations. Improving building quality, particularly wall construction, along with strengthening environmental health education, may help reduce particulate exposure and its associated health risks within the community.]]>
