Environmental and Socioeconomic Factors Contributing to Higher Dengue Prevalence in Christian Colonies of Islamabad

Abstract

This study investigates environmental and socioeconomic determinants of dengue fever prevalence in four Christian colonies in Islamabad: Rimsha Colony (H-9), 100 Quarter Colony (F-6), Hensa Colony (G-8), and France Colony (F-7).
Methadology: Using a cross-sectional household survey, entomological inspections, climate data, and health records from August to October 2024, we analyzed: the associations between housing quality, water sources, sanitation, waste management, population density, education, and dengue incidence. A sample: of 800 households (200 per colony) were surveyed for demographics, socioeconomic status, and knowledge/behavior related to dengue; entomological indices (Breteau Index, Container Index) were obtained via larval/pupal surveys; environmental conditions (proximity to stagnant water, drainage, shade, vegetation) recorded. Health data from local clinics provided confirmed dengue cases. Our results: indicate that France Colony and Rimsha Colony had significantly higher dengue incidence (20.5% and 18.0% of households reporting at least one case in study period) versus Hensa (10.5%) and 100 Quarter (9.0%). Key risk factors include lack of piped water supply (OR ≈ 3.2), irregular waste collection (OR ≈ 2.7), impermanent housing materials (OR ≈2.1), low educational attainment (OR ≈ 1.9), and high vector larval indices (Breteau Index > 20; container index > 25%) correlating with dengue incidence (r = 0.68**, p < 0.001). Climatic factors such as monthly rainfall and minimum temperature also showed strong positive correlations. The study concludes: that both environmental and socioeconomic vulnerabilities in these colonies exacerbate dengue risk, underscoring the need for integrated vector control, improved infrastructure, and community awareness interventions targeted especially in underserved Christian colonies.