General knowledge and perception of climate change in undergraduate medical students

Abstract

Objective: Climate change impacts public health, however, for its level of implication it is a topic little discussed within the training of health personnel, so the purpose of this study was to assess the awareness and perception of medical students on climate change and its impact. Method: A qualitative, cross-sectional and descriptive research method was used and a survey was designed to collect quantitative and qualitative data. The sample was defined under the non-probabilistic strategy by convenience with a total of 112 students of the Bachelor's Degree in Surgeon and Midwife, from the first to the eighth semester in universities corresponding to the metropolitan area of Guadalajara. Analysis: Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis and public health frameworks. Results: One hundred and ten students from the sample completed the survey. A bias was identified in the general knowledge of what climate change implies and misinformation regarding the extent of its effects on the health and daily life of individuals, at the same time a predominant feeling of concern was identified in relation to its consequences. Conclusion: There is a deficiency of information on climate change among undergraduate medical students. Climate change is a global reality. The world needs to work collectively on this issue and education is the first critical step that requires the attention of health professionals.