Healthcare Professionals Show Knowledge Gaps on Indoor Air Quality, Survey Finds

A new national survey by the American Lung Association indicates that healthcare professionals require enhanced education and training to effectively discuss the health impacts of indoor air pollution with their patients. This is critical as individuals spend up to 90% of their time indoors, where air quality can be significantly poorer than outdoors.

The survey of over 900 healthcare professionals found that while nearly all agreed providers should assess patients' exposure to indoor air pollution, only one in four were satisfied with their current knowledge. Furthermore, only two in five felt well-prepared to discuss these health impacts, with nearly half reporting discussing the issue with few or no patients due to knowledge gaps and time constraints.

Respondents demonstrated lower familiarity with the health effects of pollutants like radon, residential combustion emissions, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), despite recognizing common allergens. When patients presented with symptoms, three-quarters of providers recommended mitigation strategies such as source reduction, using HEPA air cleaners, and increasing ventilation.

The American Lung Association is utilizing these findings to develop resources and training programs for healthcare professionals. The organization aims to equip providers to better support at-risk individuals, including children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with pre-existing lung or heart conditions. Disproportionate impacts are also noted among lower-income communities and communities of color.