Healthcare professionals' acquaintance with climate change in India: impact on health, adaptation and mitigation strategies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20260302Keywords:
Adaptation, Climate change, Climate-related health challenges, Health impacts, Healthcare professionalsAbstract
Background: Climate change is one of the most pressing global public health threats of the 21st century, affecting human health through increased respiratory and vector-borne diseases, food and water insecurity, extreme weather events and mental health challenges. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those in low-resource settings, are disproportionately affected. India is particularly vulnerable due to existing health and social inequities, underscoring the need for a climate-literate health workforce. This study aimed to assess awareness among healthcare professionals regarding the health impacts of climate change and to examine their understanding of mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Methods: An exploratory cross-sectional survey was conducted using convenience sampling among doctors, nurses, and paramedical professionals working across India. Data were collected online via a structured questionnaire covering climate dynamics, health impacts and vulnerability. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. A total of 1009 participants responded between October 2024 to April 2025.
Results: Most participants were nurses (89.4%), females (68.3%) and aged 26- 30 years. Nearly all respondents (98.2%) reported experiencing climate change in their localities. The mean knowledge score was moderate (10.0 ± 2.65 out of 24), with doctors scoring highest. Significant gaps were identified in understanding mitigation and adaptation concepts.
Conclusions: Despite great concern about climate change, healthcare professionals demonstrated limited conceptual clarity and engagement, highlighting an attitude-action gap and the need for strengthened climate-health education and training.
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References
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