# **Survey Indicates Increased Awareness Among Americans Regarding Health Consequences of Climate Change**
## **Heightened Concern and Confidence in Scientific Insights**
A recent survey shows that Americans are increasingly cognizant of the health threats associated with climate change. Carried out by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication and the Center for Climate Change Communication at George Mason University, the study underscores a notable evolution in public opinion over the last ten years.
The results reveal that 39% of Americans now perceive climate change as negatively impacting public health “a great deal” or “a moderate amount,” reflecting an 8% rise since 2014. Moreover, almost half of the surveyed individuals acknowledge that health effects related to climate change disproportionately affect certain groups, demonstrating a 13-point increase from prior surveys.
The survey also indicated a growing trust in scientists, healthcare providers, and public health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), for trustworthy information regarding climate-affiliated health matters.
## **Health Risks Posed to the Public**
Climate change is associated with various health dangers, such as respiratory problems, illnesses related to heat, and injuries from extreme weather. The survey found that 37% of Americans can pinpoint at least one specific health danger linked to climate change, which is a 5% increase from 2014.
Experts caution that without intervention, issues including heat exhaustion, asthma, lung illnesses, and food scarcity will likely become more widespread in U.S. communities. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that climate change may contribute to an extra 250,000 fatalities annually worldwide between 2030 and 2050 due to factors like heat stress, inadequate nutrition, malaria, and diarrhea.
## **Political Hurdles and Policy Obstacles**
In spite of the rising public concern, the Trump administration has enacted measures that many authorities consider harmful to climate and health initiatives. These measures consist of:
– **Suggested budget reductions** for the EPA, limiting its capacity to manage pollution and enforce environmental safeguards.
– **Large-scale layoffs at the CDC**, undermining the nation’s ability to respond to infectious diseases and environmental health challenges.
– **Elimination of climate-related content** from governmental websites, restricting public access to scientific findings.
– **Exiting international accords**, such as the WHO and the Paris Climate Agreement, diminishing the U.S.’s involvement in global climate strategies.
Edward Maibach, a lead investigator of the survey, condemned these actions, asserting that they are at odds with public apprehensions and scientific findings. He highlighted that effective governance should align with the concerns of constituents and scientific agreement.
## **Misinformation and Public Understanding**
While awareness about climate-linked health dangers is on the rise, misinformation persists as a significant issue. The survey revealed that:
– **65% of Americans think coal is detrimental to public health.**
– **38% believe natural gas is harmful,** reflecting a 9-point rise since 2018.
– **15% consider wind energy harmful,** and **12% share the same view about solar energy,** despite the absence of scientific backing for these assertions.
Disinformation regarding renewable energy sources is frequently propagated by fossil fuel industry entities and particular media, leading to confusion among the populace.
## **Importance of Scientists and Health Experts**
One of the most unexpected aspects of the survey was the increased confidence in scientists and health experts concerning climate change, in spite of a general decline in trust in institutions following the COVID-19 crisis.
Maibach pointed out that healthcare professionals, emergency responders, and climate scientists could play a pivotal role in informing the public about the health ramifications of climate change. Their reliability and knowledge may help combat misinformation and foster support for climate action.
## **Moving Forward**
The rising awareness of the health impacts of climate change could bolster public backing for initiatives aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions and safeguarding at-risk communities.
“The evidence showing a significant rise in public recognition that climate change harms Americans’ health gives us strong hope that it will cultivate public support for climate measures,” Maibach stated.
As climate-related health threats continue to escalate, experts emphasize the necessity of science-driven policies and public awareness efforts to alleviate the consequences of global warming.
—
*This article initially appeared on [Inside Climate News](https://insideclimatenews.org/news/04032025/americans-increasingly-aware-climate-change-harming-health/), a nonprofit, nonpartisan news source focused on climate, energy, and environmental issues. Subscribe to their newsletter [here](https://insideclimatenews.org/newsletter/).*
