Awareness of Individuals with Chronic Lung Disease About Climate Change, Heat Waves, Air Pollution and Physical Activity

Assessment of Awareness of Individuals with Chronic Lung Disease on Climate Change, Heat Waves, Air Pollution, and Their Interactions with Physical Activity

Climate change is characterized by global temperature increase, melting of glaciers and increasing temperature of ocean waters. Increase in greenhouse gases such as nitrogen and carbon dioxide negatively affects air and water quality. Extreme events such as extreme heat waves, floods and hurricanes are events seen with climate change. It is known that climate change and air pollution have negative effects on public health. Its adverse effects are often seen in individuals with rhinosinusitis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Air pollution is expected to increase due to the ongoing economic growth and population growth worldwide, resulting in more respiratory diseases and disease burden. This study aims to assess the awareness level of individuals with chronic lung disease on climate change, heat waves, air pollution and their interaction with physical activity and anxiety and depression levels, and to better understand the experiences of patients and learn their perspectives. Within the scope of the study, it is planned to provide patients brief information on this subject and receive feedback about this information.

Inclusion criteria for the study:

• Being 18 years of age or older,
• Having a chronic lung disease (COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, interstitial lung disease) and being referred to the Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Unit of Hacettepe University, Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation for cardiopulmonary physiotherapy and rehabilitation,
• Being clinically stable,
• Using a smartphone with a pedometer,
• To cooperate with the tests to be conducted,
• Being willing to participate in the study.

Exclusion criteria:

• Having had an acute exacerbation or having changed medication in the last month,
• Having a severe cardiovascular, orthopedic or neurological problem that may affect the tests.