University of Kentucky
The relationship among perceived environmental exposures, socioeconomic factors, and chronic disease outcomes
Grade Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Public Health
Institution 24-25
University of Kentucky
KY House District #
79
KY Senate District #
13
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Dr. Ketrell McWhorter, PhD; Mr. Fidelis Sesenu
Department
Center For Health, Engagement, and Transformation
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Environmental exposures to pollutants and hazardous substances significantly impact the public’s health, contributing to chronic disease outcomes and exacerbating health disparities. Previous studies have highlighted associations between environmental pollutants and adverse health effects. However, few studies have explored how perceptions of environmental health risks influence chronic disease prevalence, especially across diverse demographic groups. Additionally, the influence of socioeconomic factors on vulnerability to these exposures has been under explored.
METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was carried out using 15-minute electronic surveys administered at community outreach events. The survey collected information on demographics, individuals' perceptions of their neighborhood and built environment, chronic health conditions, beliefs about the impact of environmental factors on health, personal stress related to community environments, and levels of information about community environmental issues. Descriptive (and future analytical) statistics were summarized using SAS version 9.4.
RESULTS: Among the 84 respondents, the mean age was 28.9 ±15.1 years, 64 (76%) were female, 18 (21%) male, and 2 (2%) non-binary, and 59% were non-white. Nearly 60% reported a chronic condition, with asthma (19%) being the most frequently reported followed by migraines (12%). Three participants (4%) reported a cancer diagnosis (1 cervical and 2 not listed). Eighty percent believe environmental factors contribute to chronic health conditions while nearly half reported experiencing stress related to their community environment 1-2 days per week. Nearly 30% of participants reported feeling slightly or not at all informed about their community’s environment.
CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the intersection between socioeconomic factors, environmental perception, and chronic disease outcomes. While a moderate portion of the community reports being informed of environmental health risk a significant portion of the community remains under informed, potentially exacerbating health disparities. These findings highlight the need for public health strategies to promote environmental justice, improve health literacy, and engage communities to reduce chronic disease burdens.
The relationship among perceived environmental exposures, socioeconomic factors, and chronic disease outcomes
INTRODUCTION: Environmental exposures to pollutants and hazardous substances significantly impact the public’s health, contributing to chronic disease outcomes and exacerbating health disparities. Previous studies have highlighted associations between environmental pollutants and adverse health effects. However, few studies have explored how perceptions of environmental health risks influence chronic disease prevalence, especially across diverse demographic groups. Additionally, the influence of socioeconomic factors on vulnerability to these exposures has been under explored.
METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was carried out using 15-minute electronic surveys administered at community outreach events. The survey collected information on demographics, individuals' perceptions of their neighborhood and built environment, chronic health conditions, beliefs about the impact of environmental factors on health, personal stress related to community environments, and levels of information about community environmental issues. Descriptive (and future analytical) statistics were summarized using SAS version 9.4.
RESULTS: Among the 84 respondents, the mean age was 28.9 ±15.1 years, 64 (76%) were female, 18 (21%) male, and 2 (2%) non-binary, and 59% were non-white. Nearly 60% reported a chronic condition, with asthma (19%) being the most frequently reported followed by migraines (12%). Three participants (4%) reported a cancer diagnosis (1 cervical and 2 not listed). Eighty percent believe environmental factors contribute to chronic health conditions while nearly half reported experiencing stress related to their community environment 1-2 days per week. Nearly 30% of participants reported feeling slightly or not at all informed about their community’s environment.
CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the intersection between socioeconomic factors, environmental perception, and chronic disease outcomes. While a moderate portion of the community reports being informed of environmental health risk a significant portion of the community remains under informed, potentially exacerbating health disparities. These findings highlight the need for public health strategies to promote environmental justice, improve health literacy, and engage communities to reduce chronic disease burdens.