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Public perceptions and practices on air quality and respiratory health: insights from a cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to assess public perceptions and practices regarding air quality and its impact on respiratory health in Saudi Arabia.A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 539 participants, selected through stratified random sampling across urban, semi-urban, and rural areas.Data were collected via an online questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVA.Findings indicated that 63.2% (n = 341) of participants occasionally checked air quality reports, with moderate confidence in interpreting them (52.5%, n = 283).Awareness of the health impacts of air pollution was higher in urban areas, while rural participants showed less concern and lower awareness (P < .0001).Younger participants (18-30 years) had the highest concern about air pollution (mean: 3.39), whereas older participants demonstrated lower awareness of associated health risks (P < .0001).The study found no significant gender differences in perceptions (P > .05).Despite moderate concern about air pollution, participants perceived a low impact on their quality of life (mean: 2.85).The study underscores the importance of localized public health strategies to address air quality concerns and mitigate respiratory health risks in Saudi Arabia.

Source: Journal of Medicine and Life

DOI: 10.25122/jml-2024-0385