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Student Project | Medical Science | India | Volume 11 Issue 9, September 2022
Study of the Prevalence of Face Mask Related Disturbances in Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic in an Urban Population through an Online Survey
Hasitha Jannavada [2] | Pranav Arun Bharadwaj [2]
Abstract: Objectives: 1. To determine the prevalence of health disturbances due to the usage of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. 2. To study the presence of aggravation of pre-existing respiratory illnesses due to the usage of face masks. Justification: The COVID-19 pandemic is an ongoing global pandemic caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The transmission of SARS CoV- 2 can occur through direct, indirect or close contact with infected people through infected secretions. To prevent the spread of the infection, the usage of face masks has become the norm in society irrespective of vaccination status or prior history of exposure. They aid primarily in source control and further for filtration of the droplets for wearer protection. While the benefits have been established, recent studies have also shown a relationship between the usage of masks with certain disturbances in health and daily activities. Our study aims to recognise any patterns of disease and discomfort, the cause of which could be attributed to the use of face masks, as well as to understand people's perspectives on the importance of masks during the pandemic. Methodology: An online survey was administered through social media platforms among India?s general urban population. The effects of the usage of masks were studied through several open and closed-ended questions. The development of symptoms following the usage of masks and aggravation of symptoms in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions were also assessed. Quantitative data was assessed through percentages. Result and Implication: A significant strata of the population have experienced the effects of the usage of face masks in the form of various physical manifestations. While there is growing dissent regarding its functionality, people did express their understanding over a lack of a feasible alternative to the use of face masks, with the closest equivalent being vaccination and social distancing.
Keywords: COVID-19 Pandemic, Face Masks, Respiratory Diseases, Online Survey
Edition: Volume 11 Issue 9, September 2022,
Pages: 262 - 268