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Susan Lyon Stone, MS, Health and Ecosystem Effects Group (C539-01), US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, 919-541-1146, stone.susan@epa.gov, Robert Devlin, PhD, Human Studies Division/Clinical Research Branch, US Environmental Protection Agency, MD-58D, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, and Bryan Hubbell, PhD, Innovative Strategies and Economics Group, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711.
Air pollution can have greater health impacts on people with heart or lung disease, children, older adults, and people who are active outdoors. It is important for health advisories to reach and inform these at-risk groups, so that they can take appropriate exposure reduction measures when necessary. In order to better target these groups, EPA evaluated the effectiveness of its ozone outreach program using a national survey and focus group testing.
The survey was based on a sample of adults, selected from a nationally representative Web-enabled panel and surveyed via interactive television. Respondents were asked about familiarity with the air quality ranking system, the occurrence of high ozone days locally, and changes in outdoor activities on alert days. Those with more education, higher income and better health were more likely to know of the alert system. Older adults, women, those with poorer health status, and people living in areas with unhealthy environmental conditions were more likely to take averting actions on moderate to high ozone days.
Focus group testing was conducted to find out about general beliefs about air pollution and its effect on health, and to evaluate ways of presenting information. These indicate that on a daily basis, people want short, health-based, actionable messages. More detailed information should be reserved for periodic reports. Participants wanted to receive detailed information from their physicians. EPA has created new materials for health care providers and educators, who convey information in a context that enhances the likelihood of an appropriate response.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to
Keywords: Air Quality, Communication
Related Web page: www.epa.gov/airnow
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: US Environmental Protection Agency
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employer