Exploring the perspectives of neighborhood leaders on air quality, environmental risk, and health

Background: Fort Worth is adopting an initiative to develop environmentally based improvements in health and quality of life. At the same time, North Central Texas is recognized as having excessive levels of ozone, a pollutant associated with elevated rates of respiratory disease. Additionally, research suggests associations between air pollution, reduced leisure physical activity, and decreased well-being. While city and regional entities encourage residents to adopt healthy behaviors and take individual actions to improve air quality, little is known about residents’ perceptions of air quality, and its impact on their lives, health and environment.

Methods: The UNTHSC School of Public Health collaborated with the Fort Worth League of Neighborhood Associations to hold air quality focus groups. Three geographic clusters of neighborhood associations were identified to include a range of emission sources and diverse demographics.  One focus group was formed within each area.  Questions were asked regarding perceptions of air quality, health and the environment.  Content analysis is being conducted based on three environmental risk perception themes:  place and locality, trust and communication, power and equity.

Results: Participants expressed high concern regarding air pollution and its impact on their lives, an unmet need for air quality information from trusted sources, and a low sense of efficacy in addressing air quality issues.  Analysis is ongoing.

Conclusion:  A better understanding of residents’ perceptions of air quality and effective interventions to address their concerns, may contribute to city-wide initiatives to promote healthful environments and regional efforts to improve air quality.