Adolescent Haze-Related Knowledge Level Study: A Cross-Sectional Survey With Sensitivity Analysis

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Adolescent Health
• Public Health Education

Background:

• Air pollution, commonly referred to as haze, poses significant risks to public health, especially among vulnerable populations like adolescents.
• Understanding adolescents' knowledge of haze and its determinants is crucial for developing effective health education strategies.
• Previous research has highlighted gaps in public awareness regarding environmental health issues, necessitating targeted investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the level of haze-related knowledge among adolescents in Baoding, China.
• To identify key factors influencing adolescents' awareness and understanding of haze.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for improving health education initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1,100 adolescents from randomly selected middle schools in Baoding, China, between June 2015 and January 2016.
• Stratified cluster sampling was employed to ensure representative selection of participants across different grades.
• Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Adolescent Haze-Related Knowledge Awareness Assessment Scale (AHRKAAS), with multiple linear regressions and sensitivity analyses performed.

Main Results:

• The overall AHRKAAS score rate was 69.9%, indicating a moderate level of knowledge, with the highest scores in 'human factors of haze formation' (85.6%) and the lowest in 'haze harms on the human body' (57.1%).
• Significant positive associations were found between higher AHRKAAS scores and increased monthly expenses (≥ 600 yuan), living with parents, undergoing regular physical examinations (once a year or a few times a year), and having better knowledge of respiratory system diseases.
• Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these associations, underscoring the influence of socioeconomic status, family environment, health-seeking behaviors, and prior health knowledge.

Conclusions:

• Adolescents demonstrate a low level of comprehensive knowledge regarding haze, particularly concerning its adverse health impacts.
• Key influencing factors include socioeconomic status (monthly expenses), living arrangements, frequency of physical examinations, and existing knowledge of respiratory diseases.
• Strengthened collaboration between government bodies, schools, and research institutions is recommended to enhance health publicity and education programs targeting adolescents.