Climate change related health problems and awareness of nursing students: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Climate change can trigger many health problems, from air quality to water resources, from food safety to infectious diseases. Developing nurses' knowledge and skills about the effects of climate change on health can make significant contributions to efforts to protect and improve public health. The aim of the study is to examine the health problems of nursing students related to climate change and determine their awareness and behaviors. This descriptive study included 386 students. Data were collected using the Individual Identification Form and the Climate, Health, and Nursing Scale. The mean age of the participants was 21.62 ± 3.89; 70% were female, and 47% were 4th-year students. Students who were informed about climate change had higher levels of knowledge, awareness, motivation, and behavior. It was concluded that students' knowledge about climate change had a positive effect on motivation and anxiety levels; while it did not have a significant effect on knowledge and awareness dimensions. Female students have higher levels of motivation and anxiety, which may play a role in shaping gender norms' sensitivity and responses to climate change.