Climatic changes: knowledge and adaptation behavior to heat-related illness among solid waste disposal workers

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Occupational Health
• Climate Change Adaptation

Background:

• Climate change is accelerating, with extreme heat posing significant health risks.
• Solid waste disposal workers face elevated risks of heat-related illness (HRI).
• Understanding knowledge and adaptation behaviors is crucial for mitigating HRI in vulnerable populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess knowledge and adaptation behaviors regarding HRI among solid waste disposal workers.
• To identify predictors of knowledge and adaptation behavior related to HRI.
• To inform targeted interventions for heat stress prevention in this occupational group.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory cross-sectional study involving 220 solid waste disposal workers.
• Data collection via structured interview questionnaires.
• Assessment of sociodemographic, occupational, heat exposure, knowledge, and adaptation variables.

Main Results:

• Adequate knowledge and adaptation behavior levels were found in 40% and 30% of participants, respectively.
• Significant relationships were observed between knowledge and age/education, and adaptation behavior and age, employment duration, working hours, and education.
• Age and education emerged as the most significant predictors for both knowledge and adaptation behavior.

Conclusions:

• Solid waste disposal workers exhibit high vulnerability to HRI due to insufficient knowledge and adaptation strategies.
• Educational health programs are recommended to promote healthy behaviors and prevent HRI.
• Interventions should consider age and education as key factors in improving HRI preparedness.