Public Perception of Health Risks Related to Climate Change in Broward County, Florida

Scholars agree that global climate change is a major threat to the physical
environment, affecting all aspects of life on the planet. However, the general public do
not feel that climate change is a major risk or threat, especially to humans. It is important
to understand the public’s perception and opinions of climate change as it affects and
influences the creation and passing of climate change adaptation and mitigation policies.
Specifically, little is known about public perceptions in regards to the greater health risk
imposed by global climate change. This study examines the public's perception of health
risks related to climate change in Broward County, Florida by using mixed methods. An
online survey was conducted along with in-person interviews with the general public and
a physician. The study found majority of respondents to believe climate change affects
health, but lacked an understanding of how it is harmful to their health. It also found that
gender affects their perceptions and political ideology appears to have an effect, but the
effect of socioeconomic status on their perceptions were unable to be determined at this time. Broward is just developing policies to adapt and mitigate the health effects of
climate change.