Proceeding Mulawarman International Conference on Tropical Public Health
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): The 4th MICTOPH

Public Perception of Health And Sickness in The Context of RiverWater Use For Needs

Kartinah, Kartinah (Unknown)
Gunawan, Ike Anggraini (Unknown)
Nurrachmawati, Annisa (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background : The use of polluted river water for household purposes is still frequently found in various regions of Indonesia. Objective : This narrative review aims to explore community perceptions regarding the meaning of health and sickness in relation to the practice of using river wate Research Methods/ Implementation Methods : The literature review indicates that communities develop unique perceptions of water quality based on sensory indicators (color, smell) and direct experience, rather than microbiological parameters. Results : The concept of 'sickness' tends to be defined functionally as a condition that disrupts daily activities, while mild illnesses like diarrhea and skin rashes are often normalized. Socio-cultural, economic factors, and limited knowledge shape these perceptions and create a cycle of dependency on river water. Conclusion/Lesson Learned : It is concluded that there is a gap between scientific health definitions and community perceptions, therefore public health interventions need to consider participatory approaches that understand the construction of health-sickness meanings at the community level.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

mictoph

Publisher

Subject

Public Health

Description

The Mulawarman International Conference on Tropical Public Health (MICTOPH) is an annual international conference organized by the Faculty of Public Health (FKM), Universitas Mulawarman. This event serves as a platform to gather and integrate diverse, constructive, and comprehensive ideas, concepts, ...