Explore the Perception of People on the Effect of Climate Change on the Health Risk

To assess and analyse the perception of people on the effect of climate change on health risks.

Objectives:

1. To identify the general awareness of climate change and its potential health risks.

2. To evaluate the perceived severity and susceptibility to health risks associated with climate change.

Justification for study: Clmate change poses significant health risks, including respiratory illaesses, heat-related conditions, and the spread of diseases (Watts et al., 2019). However, public perception of these risks remains poorly understood. Assessing people’s awareness and perceptions is essential for improving public health preparedness (Leiserowitz et al., 2021), informing policy development, and enhancing climate adaptation efforts (Ebi & Hess, 2020). Understanding how individuals pereeive the severity and susceptibility to health risks will also help improve communication strategies and promote protective behaviors (van Valkengoed & Steg, 2019). This study aims to fill eritical knowledge gaps and support more effective public health interventions.

Departments involved: Department of Healthcare and Hospital Management, Prasanna School of Public Health, MAHE.

Study period: October 2024 to February (5 Months)

Sample size: Confidence level (Z) = 1.96 for 95% confidence level Margin of error (d) = 0.05 (or 59%) Anticipated proportion of individuals with the outcome of interest (p) = assumed to be 0.5 (50%) n-Zxpx (1-p) / d² n=(1.96) ²x0.5x (1-0.5)) (0.05) 2 n=3.8416x 0.25/0.0025 n-0.9604/0.0025 n384.16 n=384.16 + 10% of non-responders and partial responders n=384+38-422 Therefore, the total sample size would be 422 participants.

8. Materials and methods: a) Inclusion criteria D Individuals aged 18 years and above.

Exclusion criteria a) Individuals below 18 years

b)Individuals who cannot understand English.

Biological materials required (type - blood, tissue etc and quantity): Nil

Statistical methods: Descriptive and Inferential statistical analysis will be done.

Tools used: A pre- validated questionnaire to assess the effect of climate change on the healthcare system.

Detailed description of procedure / processes : Permission and Clearance: IRC approval from PSPH, MAHE and IEC approval from KMC & KH, Manipal.

* The study population consists of individuals aged 18 years and albove, who can understand English.

* The study uses non-random, convenience sampling. Participants are selected using the contacts in personal and professional network, based on their availability and willingness to take part. Secondary contacts are obtained from the participants till the researcher gathers the estimated sample.

* Informed consent from the individuals participating in the study will be obtained by providing them with all necessary information, including the study’s purpose and procedures.

* An online structured questionnaire will be administered to the individuals who agree to participate in the study to assess their perception on the effect of health risk during climate change by sending direct messages and e-mails or posting a request in relevant groups.

*The data obtained will then be analyzed.

Outcome measures: Awareness level of climate change and related health risks.