Environmental Awareness and Attitudes Toward Climate Change Among Health Professionals: An Integrative Review
Abstract
Background: Environmental degradation and climate change are growing global problems that affect public health. This integrative review aims to consolidate the available evidence concerning environmental awareness, attitudes, and behaviors among healthcare professionals toward climate change and the implementation of sustainable health practices.
Methods: A systematic integrative review of the qualitative and quantitative studies was conducted. Studies were identified through searches of eight databases until October 2025. The inclusion criteria encompassed studies involving healthcare professionals that focused on environmental awareness, attitudes, and behaviors. Two reviewers independently screened the identified studies, and a third reviewer resolved any discrepancies. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.
Results: The review included 10 studies. Healthcare professionals recognized the link between climate change and health, but highlighted a discrepancy between growing awareness and sustainable practices. Concerns included the environmental impact of healthcare. Barriers to adopting sustainable practices included a perceived lack of institutional support. There was a dissociation between professionals' eco-friendly behaviors in their personal lives and work settings.
Conclusions: There is a need for implementing interventions focused on providing education, creating supportive work environments, and involving healthcare professionals in decision-making…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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